Get ready to party at Street Scenes

Starting Friday night, Carmel Catholic High School will focus on a higher education and the college experience, including frat houses and parents weekends.

It's all part of Street Scenes, which will open at 6:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the high school. Open to the general public ages 21 and older, the cost is $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

For one weekend, the high school is transformed into a party atmosphere featuring live bands, a casino, food and drink from local restaurants and comedy clubs.

"It's popular because, for a very modest price, people will have all kinds of options of entertainment," said Judith Mucheck, president of Carmel Catholic High School.

More than 30 rooms will showcase acts this year, including Hello Dave, Red Eye Express, Manic Impressive, 8 Miles South, Betty Soul, One Track Mind and Vintage Vibes.

Among shows to catch, Improv Playhouse will present "Billy Shakespeare Long Lost Company" on Third Street. And in the Grayslake Room, see "Bada Bing… Bada Boom: The Sopranos Graduate." There also is a "Big Fat Greek Sing-Off" and "Parents Weekend at Spendmore University."

The student show, titled "Cirque du Carmelle," is professionally produced and choreographed, presenting four shows each night.

The Carmel Café will transform into Mardi Gras featuring entertainment from Vintage Vibes. Other theme lounges and concessions include Mickey Finn's Lounge, the Martini Lounge, Delta House Lounge, the returning Margarita Lounge and the Irish Pub.

The school gym will be transformed into a Las Vegas-style casino featuring blackjack, poker, craps, roulette, Wheel of Fortune and more.

For 34 years, Street Scenes has served as Carmel's largest fundraiser. The event has raised nearly $7 million to support the high school's educational programs.

To buy tickets in advance, call (847) 566-3000.