NoTier No Fear Drama Class has no problem enrolling students.

The Northern Tier Regional Library program debuted last winter to rave reviews and its second session -- which began July 10 -- filled up faster than a Broadway theater on opening night.

Robin Gibson, director of the children & young adult services department, even doubled the number of openings, creating two separate casts, to meet the demand.

She believes skyrocketing gas prices attributed to the high interest level. Parents were looking for an activity their child could do that was free and close to home.

NoTier No Fear fit the bill.

Rebecca Dvorak, 10, didn't sign up in time to earn an on-stage role, but Gibson made her an assistant director, bringing the number of participants up to 23.

The course, which meets on Thursday and Friday afternoons through Aug. 23, teaches kids basic acting skills in a relaxed, non-pressurized environment. Students, who range in age from 8 to 13, play games that improve their communication and listening skills.

They also focus on character development, diving into their roles wholeheartedly, instead of simply memorizing a script.

Andy Abel, 13, attended the inaugural session in February and was one of the first to register for Round 2.

"It's great," he says. "I can definitely tell there's a lot of kids interested in it."

The young actor credits NoTier No Fear with helping him come out of his shell. During a script reading on July 17, he recited his lines with ease.

"Here, there's less room for failure," Gibson explains.

"Every person that participates is going to be wildly successful. They're constantly surprised by themselves and each other. They can see and feel and hear when they're doing something right -- that's addictive."

The two casts will each perform "Ring of Truth," a play penned by Gibson. The teenage drama doesn't unfold in the usual setting, such as a high school or summer camp, but in a backyard dog pen.

And while the characters bicker like teenagers, they're actually misunderstood pooches who can't catch a break from their owners.

Gibson, who works with teens every day, channeled their youthful spirit when writing "Ring of Truth," resulting in characters that real adolescents can relate to.

Performances will be held on Saturday, Aug. 23 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the library, 4015 Dickey Road in Gibsonia. Folks who are interesting in enrolling in a future NoTier No Fear course are invited to attend.

"They'll be able to tell that the kids on stage are having a good time," Gibson says.