The classic American drama “Death of a Salesman” opens tonight at the Frank W. Bridges Theatre.

Riverland Theatre presents the Pulitzer Prize and the Tony Award-winning play, written by Arthur Miller, through Sunday.

“Miller had this belief that the common people are very important,” director Jerry Girton said.

Prior to “Death of a Salesman,” protagonists were always royalty, or wealthy, he explained.

“This is the story of a common man, and his loss is as great as the loss of a king,” he continued.

The story is that of one man’s quest for the American dream in 1949. Willie Loman is a failing salesman struggling to understand his lack of success and happiness. In his reflection of the journey that did not lead to the realization of his dream, Loman’s soul-searching reveals a tragic flaw.

“The students have been working very hard on it,” Girton said.

Shane May, who plans to graduate in 2010, plays Lomen. Earlier this semester he appeared as the Bum in “The Wedding Singer.” He has performed numerous parts in various Bridges’ productions, and was involved in the Rochester’s theater scene before coming to Riverland.

Riverland Theatre’s current season is built around American Theatre. They present “Death of a Salesman,” and later this season, “OKLAHOMA!” as the classics. Later they will stage more contemporary American works.

Death of a Salesman is recommended for audiences ages 12 and over. Tickets are $12. All proceeds go to Riverland Theatre scholarships.

Riverland Theatre presents:

Death of a Salesman

When:

Wednesday, Nov. 18: 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 19: 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 20: 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 21: 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 22: 2:00 p.m.

Where:

Frank W. Bridges Theatre

Riverland Community College

1900 Eighth Avenue Northwest

Tickets:

$12, available at the Coffee House on Main and the Box Office