Westhampton Beach - The Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center presents National Players' stage adaptation of Nathaniel Hawthorne's searing classic "The Scarlet Letter," for ages 14 to 18 on Tuesday, March 29 at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

In a day and age when our privacy seems to be at a premium, and our everyday choices and decisions appear as Facebook and Twitter status lines, "The Scarlet Letter," a play about crime, punishment and Puritanism in 1666 Massachusetts Bay Colony, takes on even more contemporary relevance. Although the play is still driven by Hester Prynne and her bold and defiant choices, "The Scarlet Letter" is now a memory play told from the point of view of a young woman with a daughter of her own. Moving beyond the issues of sin and guilt in the eyes of a community, we are confronted with a text that in 2010 raises even more questions about the conflict.

The object of scorn because of her adulterous history, Prynne bears the punishment of a scarlet red "A" on her dress. Just beyond her daily cloud creeps her husband, long believed dead, waiting to seek revenge. Will his murderous plot succeed? A kiss, evil, nature, the scarlet letter and the punishing scaffold bring this literary masterpiece to life with vibrancy.

"The Scarlet Letter" is part of the WHBPAC's "School Day Performances" Series which not only supports and enhances school curriculum, but also serves to expand children's experiences and their world view. The series makes direct connections to New York State Learning Standards, while at the same time providing opportunities for young people to experience the magic and transformative powers of the arts.

The performance is 90 minutes plus a brief Q&A. Contact Cheryl Wheeler at cherylw@whbpac.org or 631-288-2350, ext. 102 for more information. Tickets are $12 and are currently available to the public.