William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” is a daunting task for even the most seasoned performer, but when the Lawrence Arts Center’s Summer Youth Theatre program opened the final show of its season Thursday night, every member of the young team was up to the challenge.

The tale of power, ambition, lies, betrayal and murder centers on Macbeth, Thane of Glamis (David Beals), and his quest for the crown. The title character’s murder of Duncan, King of Scotland (Ben Barthell), in a bid for the throne sets off a gruesome chain of events — filled with ghosts, murders, betrayals, hallucinations — that, as in many of Shakespeare’s best plays, end in tragedy.

The teenage cast convincingly pulled off a tough show, and, despite his character’s suspicion and self-doubt, Beals displayed confidence and power in the title role. It’s almost a shame Macbeth is so quick to kill off his friend Banquo (Joseph Wooldridge), because the two actors have great chemistry.

Also of note is Kendra Verhage as Lady Macbeth. The young actress revels in the intensity of her role, and comes across as evil, conniving and heartless — everything a good Lady Macbeth should be.

Another highlight of the show were the three witches (Alyssa Buecker, Laura Parkinson and Erin McDowell). Along with a trio of apparitions they spend much of the play in the mostly vacated orchestra pit, watching the proceedings. It’s a clever way to illustrate their all-seeing eyes, and director Ric Averill should get the credit for this.

As leader of the Seem-To-Be Players, Averill is a staple of Lawrence theater, and he took on an ambitious chore in bringing Shakespeare to the stage with young actors. But there appeared to be few opening-night jitters, and the cast was professional and engaging.

The show features brief musical accompaniment from Deborah Pine and Janette Schwartzburg. The two use vocals, guitar and percussion to create a sense of impending doom. With Averill’s direction and Lee Saylor’s lighting and set design, it adds up to a dark, atmospheric performance.

“Macbeth” will play again at 7:30 p.m. tonight and Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Lawrence Arts Center, 940 N.H.