April 2, 2017, The Center for the Arts will present the regional premiere of A TIME TO KILL on its mainstage. The show is based on the bestselling novel by John Grisham, and the 1996 movie starring Matthew McConaughey and Samuel L. Jackson.

This gripping story focuses on race relations in the South. The plot follows an African American father who takes vengeance on the men who committed an atrocious crime against his 9 year old daughter. Race, crime, family, and small town America are scrutinized in a trial that questions whether a person ever has the right to take justice into their own hands.

"From Screen to Stage" is the theme of the Center's 2017 season, and Executive Director, Patience Long is thrilled to be one of the first companies to bring this powerful drama to the stage, following its Broadway run. "A Time to Kill has enthralled readers for twenty-five years. I am so proud to be presenting this powerful play to our audiences. The subject matter is very timely and to be chosen to produce the regional premiere of it is an honor."

Director George Manus Jr has assembled a cast that has eagerly embraced the script. "A Time to Kill has always been one of my favorite books, so I'm honored to direct this show," Manus stated. "This cast has loved diving into such an intense play and working on the performances that this piece demands. I'm eager for our audiences to experience it."

In the lead role of Jake Brigance is James David West, who is joined by Jimmy Sanford as Carl Lee Hailey. Jenni Lee Merritt appears as Ellen Roark who assists Jake with his defense. Prosecutor Rufus R. Buckley is portrayed by Chase Todd, and Bill Stewart returns to the Center's stage as Lucien Wilbanks, Brigance's mentor.

Tickets can be purchased on the Center's website at www.boroarts.org; calling 615-904-2787; or stopping by the Center's box office at 110 W. College St. in downtown Murfreesboro. Prices are $15 for adults; $13 for seniors, students and military, $11.00 for children. Group tickets are available. Performances are at 7:30 pm on Friday and Saturday evenings and 2:00 pm on Sunday afternoons.

The center, a recognized 501(c)(3) organization, is supported in part by generous grants provided by the City of Murfreesboro, the Tennessee Arts Commission and the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. A TIME TO KILL is sponsored by Ingram.