AUBURN — The DeKalb Outdoor Theater Board is now accepting applications for use of its new stage in Auburn.

“There have been numerous people and organizations that have contributed to bring us to the point of beginning the process to prepare to start planning events for the coming season. The Outdoor Theater Board is extremely appreciative to all those who have made this possible,” said John Chalmers, president of the board.

Two groups of events are planned for the 2009 season, he said.

The Performance Series will present 11 events on Fridays from June 5 through Aug. 14.

“Many summer outdoor venues offer events on a weekly basis and find that attendance grows as people become accustomed the entertainment opportunities a series of events offers,” Chalmers said.

A second group of events will be outside the Performance Series schedule.  “It is recognized that some organizations and groups would prefer to be scheduled at times other than Friday evenings,” Chalmers said. “Timing will be as requested by the users, but constrained by the limitation of the facility that no more than two events can occur during a week. For these events, charging admission is acceptable, but not required.”

Chalmers said any interested group may apply to use the theater. The board will select events based on the values, vision and mission of the Outdoor Theater organization.

“We sincerely hope that all interested parties can participate, but we are limited to two events per week,” Chalmers said.

The theater is on the east side of Cedar Creek, south of Eleventh Street. The access drive is off Center Street, south of Fifteenth Street.

Applications to use the theater for 2009 and additional information may be found at dekalboutdoortheater.org and at Carbaugh Jewelers in downtown Auburn.