The Nevada Conservatory Theatre at UNLV presents Summers of Fear, an original play by Robert Benedetti, March 4 - 13 in the Judy Bayley Theatre.

As children were dying in the polio epidemics of the 1950s, Jonas Salk worked night and day to create an effective vaccine using a method that defied conventional wisdom. This vaccine was delivered to millions by the March of Dimes - the largest peacetime mobilization in American history.

By 1953, the Salk vaccine had reduced polio deaths by 80 percent, but the storm of controversy it caused left Salk's reputation in tatters. This new original play chronicles a thrilling episode of American medical history that touched many.

The cast includes Steve Rapella as Jonas Salk; Lauren T. Mack as Donna Salk; Joan Mullaney as Dora Salk; Jordan Bondurant as Julius Youngner; Lisa Fischel as Elsie Ward; George Cohen as Albert Sabin; Mike Thatcher as Tommy Francis; Dale Perry as Basil O'Connor; and Mason Leech as Jimmy Sarkett.

Performances are at 8 p.m. on March 4, 5, 10, 11, and 12, with matinees at 2 p.m. on March 6 and 13. Tickets are $20-$30 and are on sale at the UNLV Performing Arts Center Box Office. Special rates are available for groups of 15 or more. Box Office hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (702) 895-ARTS (2787) for more info.