COLUMBUS, Ohio — This weekend, The Wagnalls Memorial Library in Lithopolis is taking audiences "There and Back Again" as dwarves, orcs, a dragon and an adventurous hobbit bring the magic of Middle-earth to the real-life castle's stage.

Based on the beloved children's book by J.R.R. Tolkien, the stage version of "The Hobbit" follows Bilbo Baggins' exploits with the wizard Gandalf and a dozen plus one dwarves, taking audiences on a quest for treasure from the rolling hills of The Shire to the Misty Mountains and through the dark and ominous Mirkwood Forest.

"This particular story is one of courage and determination and unlikely friendships," explained director Scott Gottliebson.

Set before the events of Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, "The Hobbit" has served as an entryway

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