Arthur Miller’s American classic “The Crucible” will take center stage at Pioneer Valley High School on November 3, 5, 10, 11 and 12.
The Panther Drama Department plans to perform the play that takes place during the Salem Witch Trials in modern dress and move to different locations for different scenes on campus. Miller wrote the play in 1953 when he was caught up in the “witch hunt” of McCarthyism.
“Using modern dress makes the play seem more relevant to our students who need to understand that there are modern day “witch hunts” that still take place today,’’ said teacher Shawnah Van Gronigen, adding not one word of the original scrip has been changed.
Drama students are having some provocative fun with their characters.
Senior Daniel Segura who plays John Proctor says, “I’m glad to have my first play be one that has such a powerful message for the general public, especially in an election year.’’
Freshman Aislinn Mase has a lighter approach.
“It’s fun to act all hysterical with all the other young girls of Salem,’’ Mase said.
The 7 p.m. shows start in room 202 and cast members will escort the audience from location to location. Tickets are $5.00 for students and $7.00 for general admission. They can be purchased in advance at the PVHS business office or at the door the night of the performance.
