Feeling up for conquering an impossible dream?

If so, the Human Race Theatre Company's production of "Man of La Mancha" may be just what you need.

The acclaimed musical, a retelling of Miguel de Cervantes' "Don Quixote," combines thrills, an unconventional romance and humor with songs that won the show the 1966 Tony Award for Best Musical.

"Man of La Mancha" at the Loft Theatre ends with a 2 p.m. matinee this Sunday. The show also has 8 p.m. performances from Wednesday through Saturday.

"This compelling version of 'La Mancha' is not to be missed," said the Dayton City Paper, typical of the critical response Scott Stoney's production has received.

Cervantes would be proud to know his work is acclaimed in 2009. For all of his life, he bounced from misfortune to misfortune: a stint as a slave, jail time for the falsely accused crime of embezzlement and excommunication by the Catholic Church; it is that last event that sets "Man of La Mancha" into motion.

Facing the Spanish Inquisition, Cervantes (Kevin Moore) is treated to a mock trial by his cellmates. To protect his manuscript of "Don Quixote," Cervantes acts out the story with the criminals' help, transforming him and his manservant (David C. Maxwell) into Quixote and sidekick Sancho Panza, out to right the world of its sins.

Seeking solace at an inn, the duo encounters serving-girl Aldonza (Melissa D'Amico), who Quixote insists is the living Dulcinea, a symbol of beauty and purity worthy of his service and devotion. For Aldonza, busy fighting off the advances of her customers, Quixote's interest in her is both confusing and inspiring.

Along the way, Quixote defends Aldonza's honor, resulting in him being dubbed the "Knight of the Woeful Countenance." But the couple's happiness is in jeopardy, thanks to Aldonza's revenge-minded customers and a doctor (Jamie Cordes) trying to save Quixote from himself.

The role of Cervantes/Quixote won its original portrayer, Richard Kiley, the Tony for Best Actor in a Musical. Playing Quixote, Kevin Moore sings several standards, including "Dulcinea" and "The Impossible Dream," recently sung by Brian Stokes Mitchell at Sen. Edward Kennedy's funeral.

Ticket prices for "Man of La Mancha" range from $16.50 to $18 with a student discount. For further information, call (937) 228-3630 or visit http://www.ticketcenterstage.com.