By Chuck Graham, TucsonStage.com
photo by Tim Fuller
Matt Bowdren and Holly Griffith as John and Elizabeth Proctor.
That phrase “witch hunt,” currently popular among certain occupants of the White House, is generally understood to mean “false accusations.” It generally refers back to the mass hysteria witch trials of 1692-93 in and around Salem, Massachusetts.
Our most popular remembrance of those trials is Arthur Miller's 1953 play, “The Crucible.” Now the formidable Rogue Theatre brings a crisply clear-eyed production directed by Christopher Johnson.
It is commonly taken for granted “The Crucible” was Miller's way of saying the U.S. government's search for hidden communists in the 1950s was another tragic example of the same hysteria.
Now here we are in 2019, believing once again that Russian communists are infiltrating our country. Or is it another witch hunt?
Miller's play is only loosely based on the actual Salem trials to determine which colonists actually were witches. What involved Miller the most was his masterful understanding of human nature.
It is always tempting to believe the New England colonists of 1692 were idealistic but poorly educated folk given to believing in mysteries and superstitions.
Miller would have none of that. He makes it clear they were all quite clever opportunists with a diamond-hard instinct for survival. Not much different from people today.
Matt Bowdren has returned to the Rogue in the pivotal role of John Proctor. With his acting skills finely honed, Bowdren creates a proudly independent man whose strongest qualities become his fatal weakness.
Playing opposite him is Holly Griffith as Proctor's willful wife, Elizabeth. She matches him turn for turn through the collapsing crests and bulging swells of public opinion that threaten to swamp their lives with irrational fears.
The instigator determined to save herself is the village girl Abigail Williams, played by Bryn Booth. Employed for awhile by the Proctors, Abigail did imagine herself in love with John after their brief affair. A masterful schemer, Abigail now becomes a convincing villain determined to get Elizabeth out of the picture.
Almost as villainous is Christopher Younggren, a talented actor apparently born to play villains, as the ambitious Reverend Paris who sees opportunity here, a chance to elevate his reputation and become known as Evil's worst enemy.
Another Reverend of more impeccable character is John Hale, played with confidence by Ryan Parker Knox. His performance adds depth to a strong cast.
In a small but essential role is Joseph McGrath as the trial's highest government official, Deputy Governor Danforth. McGrath adds all the gravitas necessary to give the play's ending its punch.
As an opportunity to understand the full meaning of “witch hunt,” seeing this production of “The Crucible” is essential. We like to believe there are no witches and that good people will always do the right thing.
Arthur Miller reminds us that doesn't always happen.
“The Crucible” continues through May 12 with 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, at The Rogue Theatre, 300 E. University Blvd.
Tickets are $38; and $15 for student rush 15 minutes before curtain. For details and reservations, www.theroguetheatre.org or call 551-2053.
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