Craig — For more than 70 years Moffat County businessmen have been dressing in drag to roast local, state and national events in a play designed to raise funds for the Craig Kiwanis Club youth programs.

“Our emphasis has always been on youth and youth activities,” said Club President Jim Ferree.

The 71st annual Kiwanis Play will be held at 8 p.m. March 3 and 4 at the Moffat County Fairgrounds Pavilion in Craig. Open ticket sales start at 2 p.m. this Saturday at J.W. Snack’s Gulf Coast Bar & Grill during the club’s Super Saturday Tailgate Kickoff Party.

The script is top secret and will continue to be developed until the curtain rises, however playgoers are sure to be entertained by men in drag.

“We are still an all-male group so we need to cross-dress for the female roles,” Ferree said.

There’s another reason for doing the play in drag — it’s funnier.

“A big reason is the shock factor. As a group we enjoy that about as much as anything else,” said Kevin Oxley, play chairman.

Learning to put on pantyhose and walk in high heels is all for a good cause.

Most of the money raised will go to fund scholarships for Moffat County High School seniors, the rest to Special Olympics, youth programs and to keep the club running.

Tickets are $20 each or $200 for a table of 10, helping the club to raise around $14,000 each year.

“We give out about $12,000 in scholarships, sometimes a little more or a little less,” Ferree said.

Only a few tables are left for March 4 (many have been reserved for previous customers) and are likely to sell fast the during open ticket sales.

Consuming alcohol in the parking lot and sidewalk are not allowed. Food and drink can be purchased and consumed inside J.W. Snack’s.

Leftover tickets will be on sale beginning Feb. 13 at Northwest Pawn Shop in Craig.

Contact Sasha Nelson at 970-875-1794 or snelson@CraigDailyPress.com or follow her on Twitter @CDP_Education.