AUBURN - Attending the production of a play is a great way to spend a family outing. And when that play teaches a few lessons, the outing can become a nice way to open up the lines of communication with your children.

That is just what the production of “Emmett and Ella's Big Apple Escapade” held Sunday at the Auburn Public Theater had in store for eager guests.

Written by Rachel Lambert, the story of Emmett and Ella is about two pet dogs who take it upon themselves to visit New York City when they find out that their mistress will not be taking them along on her trip.

In addition to being the author and director of the play, Lambert is the artistic director of Kitchen Theatre Company in Ithaca.

“We aren't able to produce our own productions,” said Angela Daddabbo, artistic director of the Auburn Public Theater. “Our family series is based on the family fare of the Kitchen Theatre.”

According to Daddabbo, the theater has taken many steps to create an all-around entertainment center atmosphere for the whole family.

Inspirations for the theater have often come from the Kitchen Theatre Company, she said.

Daddabbo said that the Auburn Public Theater hopes to be in a better position to produce their own productions in the future.

“Auburn is a very sports-related city,” she said. “The theater is an alternative to that. The theater is an addition to the school experience.”

According to Lambert, the play was written about her own dogs named Emmett and Ella.

Unfortunately, her dog Emmett died of old age, but a new dog named Elvis has since joined her family.

“The play is about adventure,” Lambert said. “And an opportunity to learn about the difference between rural and urban life.”

Lambert said that the play also holds the lessons of consequences and taking responsibility for your actions.

In addition to family play productions, the theater offers many entertainment opportunities for every taste.