FARMINGTON — Theatre UMF will stage “Coyote on a Fence,” Bruce Graham’s compelling drama about the fairness of capital punishment, in mid-March.

A powerful play that explores complex questions about today’s society, “Coyote on a Fence” is set in a prison in the Southeast where two men, convicted and sentenced to death, await their fate.

Illiterate but likable, Bobby Reyburn is convicted of setting a church and its black congregation on fire in the name of Aryan pride. Death row inmate John Brennan, whose crime may have done society a favor, writes a prison newsletter that attempts to show the good in fellow inmates.

Through their interaction, “Coyote on a Fence” poses the question: “How does today’s society measure guilt and innocence?”

“This production’s outstanding cast and technical design team, led by Stan Spilecki and Elizabeth Dorr, creates an authentic environment that immediately immerses both the cast and audience in Graham’s gripping story,” said director Jayne Decker, UMF faculty member and artistic director for the Sandy River Players. Decker is also an award-winning playwright.

Graham is the author of a dozen produced plays and has spent eight years as playwright-in-residence at the Philadelphia Festival Theater for New Plays. His TV/film credits include “Dunston Checks In,” “Anastasia” and “Steal This Movie,” as well as the Ira Einhorn miniseries “Hunt for the Unicorn.” 

“Coyote on a Fence” contains adult language and is for a mature audience.

Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. March 15-17; and 2 p.m. March 18 in Alumni Theater on the University of Maine at Farmington campus. For tickets,  $7 for adults/$5 for seniors and students, call 778-7465. Tickets will also be  sold at the door.