FROSTBURG — Racial tensions of the 1930s Deep South are the focus with Frostburg State University’s Cultural Events Series presentation of the play based on Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Harper Lee, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” on Nov. 17, at 7:30 p.m. at Mountain Ridge High School in Frostburg.

The full-length play, transferred to the stage by Christopher Sergel in 1997, is a faithful reproduction of Lee’s classic American story, set in a sleepy Southern town in 1935. Told through the eyes of Scout, the tomboyish daughter of Atticus Finch, the story is about dignity, tolerance and the difficulties of growing up in a rural community in Alabama during the depression.

The town is rocked with scandal when a young black man is accused of raping a white woman. Atticus Finch stands against his fellow townspeople by defending the accused man. The racial tensions have polarized the town and most white folks are against Atticus in this gothic melodrama. The play focuses on Atticus’ heroic battle, as well as the growth and development of the Finch children as they watch prejudice and racism erupt in their community. The play offers high drama, wit and hope as the characters explore themes that are still relevant today.

Group discounts and FSU employee and student discounts are available. To obtain tickets or for more information, contact the Cultural Events Series at (301) 687-3137 or visit http://ces.frostburg.edu.

Along with the stage play, FSU will present the storied 1962 film “To Kill a Mockingbird” in Lane University Center 201 on Nov. 13 and 14 at 8:30 p.m. and Nov. 15 at 2 p.m. The film, directed by Robert Mulligan, stars Gregory Peck, John Megna and Frank Overton.

The feature film is free and open to the public.

The Cultural Events Series and this Arts for Adjudicated Youth Project are supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council.