Students at Oakland Elementary School as will take on new identities next weekend, such as Sgt. Stan Guard, Minni Rhodes and Dr. X. Spearmint, when they go on an adventure through the jungles of Tooki-Tooki in the play “Goin’ Bananas.”

Following a 10-year tradition at the school, the students will perform a play written by P.B. Rogerson at their annual dinner theatre on June 3 at 6 p.m.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for the children to engage in the fine arts at the elementary school level,” said Rena Long, who is organizing the dinner. “They’ve had a lot of fun putting it together.”

Students in grades three through five will act in the play, which is fourth in a series of six plays that rotate every year. Rogerson, a published playwright, put the series together for the school.

“It was the brainchild of our former principal, Dr. Moore — now, Dr. Rice,” Long said. “It’s really turned out to be team-building and great for the self-esteem for the students.”

The students have been practicing and rehearsing for Thursday evening since spring break.

“They’ve been very dedicated and gung-ho about it,” Long said. “It’s been so neat to see the level of competence they’ve demonstrated at such a young age.”

The play will last 45 minutes, and tickets for the dinner can be secured by calling the school by noon on Tuesday at 923-5248.

“I hope people will come out and support these young students in their endeavors,” Long said. “It certainly makes for a fun night out.”