An adapted version of William Golding's novel, 'Lord of the Flies', is to be presented tonight by the Theatre Royal York and Pilot Theatre.

It is one of three performances at the Ruth Seaton James Centre for the Performing Arts.

The allegorical story, a timeless work following the central theme of the journey from boyhood to manhood, addresses how human culture can be little more than a veneer which withers under extreme circumstances.

Although the novel is about schoolchildren, and is studied by schoolchildren, its themes and the questions it raises are equally challenging to adults.

Stranded on a desert island, the attempts at self-government of a group of British schoolboys produce disastrous results. Human nature fares poorly under Golding's microscope, and his conclusions on the question of community versus the individual resound today — more than 50 years after the book was published. Golding described writing his novel as "like lamenting the lost childhood of the world".

Pilot Theatre is a national touring company based in Yorkshire, northern England. Its version of Golding's novel is an adaptation for stage by Nigel Williams which is directed by Marcus Romer. The production remains true to the vision of the novel, but in keeping with Pilot Theatre's style of performance, 'Lord of the Flies' is dangerous, contemporary and exciting.

While more than a million people have seen this production, it is the first time it has been performed in Bermuda.

Collaborating with nationally significant venues, the Theatre Royal York and the Lyric Theatre in London, the project has enabled Pilot to reach more young people than ever, with a full workshop programme available to tour venues, and teachers' resources made available through the Pilot website.

n Curtain time for all performances is 8 p.m.