EAST BRUNSWICK - Students at East Brunswick High School will bring the mythical events of the Trojan War to life on stage this weekend.

The school's production of "Tiger at the Gates: Or the Trojan War Will Not Take Place" opens tonight, with performances throughout the weekend.

"I'm really proud of the kids," drama teacher Jeff Davis said. "They did an amazing job. [People] should come out and see it. They'll be impressed."

The show, penned by French playwright Jean Giraudoux in 1935, goes beyond the typical high school performance, Davis said. Beginning on the day before the start of the Trojan War in the city of Troy, it follows the tribulations of Hector, a Trojan military commander who wishes to avoid going to war with the Greeks.

"Hector just came home from war. All he wants to do is live in peace with his wife and his unborn son," Davis said.

Audiences will watch a determined Hector's struggle for peace with those who are eager to go to war, while witnessing undertones of Giraudoux's critique of those who brought about the First World War as well as those that would eventually lead to World War II.

Davis, who is in his third year teaching at the school, was enthused about the legendary story coming to the high school.

"I love his work," Davis said. "I love this play, and thought the kids were ready for the challenge. It's a really complicated and tough play to act."

According to Davis, the students have been rehearsing the show since late September, putting in over 100 hours of hard work.

Performances will be held tonight, Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. in the Joseph J. Sweeney Auditorium at the high school, Cranbury Road. Tickets are $8 for the general public and $5 for students and seniors.