For Tori Scoggins, performing in The Roar of Love, a ballet based on C.S. Lewis' The Chronicles of Narnia, is an annual rite of spring.

"I've been doing this for 12 years," said Tori, a sophomore at John S. Davidson Fine Arts School who will perform in the production this weekend at Bell Auditorium.

This is the 23rd year Ron Jones and the dancers in the Columbia County Ballet have presented The Roar of Love. More than 250 dancers from preschoolers to college students will take the stage during the two days of performances.

Tori said she looks forward to the production each spring because it gives her a chance to stretch her dancing skills and take on the roles of the creatures and people in the mythical land of Narnia.

Brynn Allen, a fifth-grader at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School and another veteran of the production, plays Penelope the cat.

"It's fun because everyone looks up to you," said Brynn, who was in her first production at age 3.

The director, Mr. Jones, said he's excited about some guests at this year's production.

"Focus on the Family President and CEO Jim Daly will welcome the audience via DVD, followed by Mayor Deke Copenhaver. Visiting Augusta for the first time to see the Roar of Love is Dr. James Dobson's special assistant, Doug Birney, who is also expected to address the audience just before the curtain rises," said Mr. Jones.

Dr. Dobson is the founder of Focus on the Family.

The performance will be at 7 p.m. Friday and 3 p.m. Saturday at Bell Auditorium. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students and seniors.

For more information, call (706) 860-1852.

Reach Charmain Brackett at czbrackett@hotmail.com.