SLIPPERY ROCK - Popular composer Marvin Hamlisch, the vocal group Rockapella, choreography by the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company and political satire by the trendy Capitol Steps are the four subscription shows that will be part of the first ING Performing Arts Series at Slippery Rock University.

All shows will start at 7:30 p.m. in SRU's Miller Auditorium.

A separate feature for families with young children will be Theatreworks USA's musical adaptation of the Junie B. Jones series of books. This family show, which will be offered at 7 p.m. May 19, is not part of the subscription series.

The schedule follows:

Sept. 17 - Rockapella, an a cappella singing group blending soul, rock, rhythm and blues and jazz. They are the house band for "Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego," and have appeared on the "Tonight Show with Jay Leno." This concert corresponds with SRU's Family and Friends Day.

Dec. 1 - Marvin Hamlisch, principal Pittsburgh Symphony Pops conductor, will share his life's story and music during a solo performance. Hamlisch has won three Oscars, four Grammys, four Emmys, one Tony and three Golden Globes. The musical "A Chorus Line," for which he wrote the music, received a Pulitzer Prize

Jan. 30 - Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, contemporary pieces merged with traditional Asian art compared to "visual poetry."

April 1 - Capitol Steps, comedy group of past and present congressional staffers who use song to satire political figures and events. They are non-partisan.

The additional performance of the "Junie B. Jones" musical adaptation is planned for 7 p.m. May 19 in Miller Auditorium. Tickets for that show are $6.

Theatreworks USA's production takes the precocious Junie through a year in first grade. Clever design sets, assorted styles of original music and spirited cast members are hallmarks of this production. Tickets for the 7 p.m. show are $6.

A subscription reserves a seat for the first four events at a 15 percent discount. Discounted rates are $52 for adults, $44 for senior citizens and children and $22 for SRU students. If available, tickets will be sold at the door for individual performances. Tickets for the Junie B. Jones performance will be sold separately.

To buy a subscription, submit a request with the number of season subscriptions needed. Make checks payable to the Slippery Rock University Foundation. Add a $3 handling fee for the entire order (not per ticket) and mail to: ING Performing Arts Series, Slippery Rock University Office of Public Relations, 201 Old Main, 1 Morrow Way, Slippery Rock, PA 16057.

Junie B. Jones tickets may be ordered from the same address. An additional $3 handling fee is not required if you are including this order with a subscription request.

For more information: call 738-724-2091.