If you have never seen The Crucible, take advantage of this production, because it is not likely to get any better. It is a great cast and a great production of a great play.
The most frightening thing is how relevant the issues still are today. Superstition, mass hysteria, hatred of women, and manipulation of religious beliefs to support punishment are still common all over the world. Arthur Miller wrote this play in response go the injustices of the House UnAmerican Activities Committee, that sentenced him to jail for refusing to name names. This morning the Globe had an article about a Russian band (all three women) on trial for criticizing the government and for doing it in a church, thereby offending some people who thought they were possessed by the Devil. Too close to home, or at least too close chronologically. The Salem witchcraft trials could return again at any time.
Stuart Hughes, Patricia Fagan, Oliver Dennis and Joe Ziegler all deserve applause for their excellent performances.
A frighteningly good play about the dangers of standing up - and of not standing up.
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