From November 16 to 25, Sink or Swim takes the stage at the Gateway Theatre (6500 Gilbert Road, Richmond).

Presented by HappyGoodThings Productions, the play introduces the audience to a five-year-old girl named Smelly Elliott, whose fears and foibles are revealed in a series of songs and poignant anecdotes.

Starring writer-performer Beverley Elliott, Sink or Swim charts Smelly Elliott's journey from the safety of her family's farm to the chaos of an unruly, one-room schoolhouse where she must learn to contend with her fellow students.

For this production, Elliott will be joined onstage by her frequent collaborator, pianist, and composer Bill Costin.

Elliott's previous original production ...didn't see that coming was the Pick of the Fringe in 2014 and enjoyed a successful run at the Gateway Studio in 2015.

Tickets for Sink or Swim are $29 and are available online or by calling 604-270-1812.