I believe you can do what you want by using the Envelope function from the Effects Menu. Type the test you want curved on a separate line. Select the text and use the envelope function. When the docker drops down select new. Check the single arc option and Putty.Then grab the middle handle above the text and move it down until you get the curve you're looking for. You may have to adjust the two end handles to get it just right.

I'm using 10 by I am pretty certain you can do the same in 8.

John