The Middle-earth adventures of Bilbo Baggins come to life when Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy Panther Players' production of "The Hobbit" hits the stage tonight at Coeur d'Alene High School.

The stage adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's classic novel tells the tale of Bilbo's quest for a share of treasure, with Gandalf the wizard and a band of dwarves.

Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy drama teacher Tracey Vaughan, the play's director, said "The Hobbit" is one of her favorite stories.

"I am so pleased to be able to work with students and a design team to produce the show," Vaughan said. "I am a huge fan of the current Tolkien movies, but there is something about this children's story that really lends itself to the stage."

The role of Bilbo is filled by Josh Ranum, a senior.

Nick Kane plays Thorin Oakenshield, the leader of a band of dwarves whose names are Dwalin, Balin, Kili, Fili, Dori, Nori, Ori, Oin, Gloin, Bifur, Bofur and Bombur.

"I wanted to join this production because it is my last year at Charter, and I wanted to act before I graduated. Acting can also really help me with my dance career," Kane said.

Sydney Morrison plays the ring-obsessed creature Gollum.

In addition to hobbits, dwarves and a wizard, the play's cast of 47 includes goblins, trolls and elves.

"It's fun to be a magical creature. This is my last show at Charter, and it has been a great experience because all the other actors are like my family," said senior Casey Hastings, who plays Amorith, the elven queen.

The character of Isithrade is played by Jada Douglass, one of the production's younger actors.

Douglass said that as a first-year high school student, she enjoyed the opportunity to get to know the older students involved in the show.

"The story of 'The Hobbit' has been on paper so long, and it is fun to bring this majestic story to life," Douglass said.

"The Hobbit," a novel first published in 1937 is the prequel to Tolkien's epic fantasy "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy.

Through the years, "The Hobbit" has been adapted many times for radio, stage and film.

"Of course, with such an iconic story, every choice needed careful consideration; from the dwarf beards to Gandalf's staff - everything needed to have an appeal for the fans of the novel," said director Vaughan.

Jacob Crotinger, a senior, plays the role of Gandalf, and is also Vaughan's assistant director.

Crotinger said Tolkien's work has been a favorite of his since he was a young child.

"His stories are so deeply explored and fleshed out," Crotinger said. "Tolkien crafted some of the most vivid stories in modern literature, so it really is an honor to be able to take part in it."

Show times at Coeur d'Alene High School are tonight and Friday at 7 p.m., and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets are available at the door and cost $7 for adults and $5 for students and children.