Sometimes memories are more pleasant and shouldn’t be disturbed. The Piedmont College Theatre Department will perform "The Nerd" to prove this difficult lesson at 7:30 p.m. April 12-14 and at 2 p.m. April 15 on the Mainstage Theater.

The two-act comedy, directed by John Spiegel, is set in Terre Haute, Ind., in late 1979.

Willum Cubbert has often told his friends about the debt he owes to Rick Steadman, a fellow ex-GI whom he has never met but who saved his life in Vietnam.

Willum is delighted when Rick shows up unexpectedly on the night of his 34th birthday party. But Willum’s delight soon fades as it becomes apparent that Rick is a hopeless "nerd."

The play, by Larry Shue, was first presented by the Milwaukee Repertory Theater in April 1981, and author Shue played the role of Willum Cubbert. The play also ran on Broadway for 441 performances between March 22, 1987, and April 10, 1988.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors; free for Piedmont faculty, staff, students, and alumni. For reservations, visit www.piedmont.edu/FA.