Gnarly pirates and chatty clownfish were on hand Wednesday as the West County Area Library kicked off its summer reading program with an ocean-themed performance.

The show will take place at Mountain Road Library on Monday.

Singer-songwriter and oceanographer Bridgette Michaels performed at West County in front of about 50 children, offering some marine biology lessons and tips on conservation.

Joined by drummer and partner Dawn Madak, the duo sang a half-dozen sea-related songs, including a few originals. They also incorporated a conversation with two puppet clownfish—Barry and Larry—into their routine, and had children act out as pirates and jellyfish as well as other sea creatures.

"This is what we do," Michaels said. "We just hope the kids have fun, learn to take care of the ocean and learn about the environment."  

Michaels was born in Jamaica and grew up in Trinidad. She studied oceonagraphy in Miami before moving to Annapolis.

Michaels and Madak perform together regularly in the Annapolis and Baltimore area, bringing ocean-themed and Caribbean music at events for both kids and adults.

The "By the Sea" show will stop at 14 more libraries in Anne Arundel County in June and July. The show will be performed at Mountain Road Library on Monday at 3:30 and 7 p.m.

Check the Anne Arundel County Public Library website for more information.