And, but and or get you pretty far.

That's according to the song "Conjunction Junction," part of the "Schoolhouse Rock!" cartoon series and a number in this weekend's Matchbox Children's Theater musical.

A 10-member cast is set to perform "Schoolhouse Rock Live!" Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Paramount Theater.

Adult spectators will remember the songs of the late 1970s, early 1980s cartoon. Younger audience members will enjoy the music and action, said director Sarah Lenn.

The Matchbox Children's Theater voted to perform the musical for its fall program. Students in high school and college make up the cast.

The cast has been rehearsing since Oct. 21 with first-time director Lenn and assistant director Carrie Parker. Lenn has been on the Matchbox board for nine years and acted in several community theater productions.

Lenn choreographed the show and musical director Rena Langowski has helped the cast with songs like "I'm Just a Bill," "The Preamble," and "Interplanet Janet."

"The songs are fun and they get a little bit silly," Lenn said.

The songs each teach a lesson, varying from history to grammar to math. The show lasts just under an hour.

"It's something parents can bring their kids to without having to sit very long," Lenn said.

Matchbox puts on three shows a year, which are geared toward children. It also hosts a summer theater camp.

All of the cast members have performed previously, but many have not been involved with Matchbox before, Lenn said.

Cast member Katie Brody, a 10th-grader at Austin High School, has performed in many plays and said the show is coming together.

"It's been a little hectic the past couple days," Brody said.

Children will enjoy the interactive aspect of the show, Brody said.

"Every song is sung to them," she said.

Jenna Wolterman, cast member and ninth grader at Southland High School, said parents will like the show as well.

"They know the songs from the past," she said.

"Schoolhouse Rock Live!" opens 7 p.m. Friday at the Paramount and will be performed 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $5.50 or $4 for those 14 and under or 62 and older. They may be purchased at Nemitz's/Black Barts, Main Street, Paramount and at the door.

Cari Quam can be reached at 434-2235 or by e-mail at cari.quam@austindailyherald.com