Evolutionary production

A Tennessee teacher is prosecuted for teaching Darwin's theory of evolution to public school students in the Niagara Regional Theatre Guild's production of "Inherit the Wind," Nov. 3-11 at the Riviera Theatre.

Written by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee, the production is directed by Fran Newton. The drama is based on the 1925 "Scopes monkey trial." A media circus surrounds the heated face-off between a nationally renowned lawyer and a fundamentalist politician.

Although a fictionalized account, the play draws upon actual trial transcripts of the legendary courtroom confrontation between Clarence Darrow and William Jennings Bryan.

The production features Robb Zahm, Stephen Jakiel, Tom Lang, Scott Macmin, Ed Weston, Gary Gaffney, Hannah Klopfer, Don Gallo and Victor Morales.

Performances are at 8 p.m. Nov. 3 and 4, 10 and 11; and 3 p.m. Nov. 5, at 67 Webster St., North Tonawanda. An opening night reception will take place following the show with the cast, crew and audience members in the lobby of the Riviera Theatre.

Tickets are $10 for opening night. All other shows are $14 general, $13 for seniors and students, $10 for children 16 and under. Groups of more than 15 and school performances have special pricing. Tickets are available at the box office and by calling 284-6358 or 692-2413 (www.rivieratheatre.org).