The Crucible

WAAPA’s The Crucible, performed by Third Year Acting Students, feels very different to the typical production of Arthur Miller’s classic script, with director Matt Edgerton’s desire to encourage the audience to look at the play with fresh eyes fully realised.

Designers Georgia Manning (set) and Maeli Cherel (costumes) have abandoned the heavy interiors and starched collars we expect, and give us an impressionistic picture of this Christian community at the edge of an unexplored land. Lighting, designed by Bradley Hodgkiss, is strong and atmospheric (although a little more light on faces at times may have been helpful) and the composition by Pavan Havi and sound design by Mitchel Tinsley support this vision.

Wonderful “moments” abound in this production, possibly inspired by this cohort’s work with Tectonic Theatre, adding emotion. The girls in the wood provide a strong opening statement that sets in motion the events of the play. Cameron Rouse brings wonderful physicality to Betty Parris, Lily Stewart is excellent in the key role of manipulative Abigail Williams, Mikayla Merks makes an outstanding Mary Warren with a wonderful journey, and Kian Pitman and Mia Morrissey give powerful performances as Susanna Walcott and Mercy Lewis. Teresa Moore’s honey accented Tituba is movingly performed.

Mike Cameron and Ellen Robson create a believable, fraught relationship as John and Elizabeth Proctor and Will Bartolo’s incarnation of Reverend John Hale is perhaps the best I have seen.

Jimi Rankin gives tangible fervour to Reverend Parris, James Thomasson has a wonderful presence as Giles Corey. Wonderful and believable maturity from Jessie Lancaster and Luke Smith and Rebecca and Francis Nurse.

Shannon Ryan performs triple duty, creating distinct characters for Ann Putnam, Sarah Good, and Martha Cory. Solid performances from Sam Corlett (Thomas Putnam), Adam Marks (Ezekiel Cheever), Tom Jackson (Marshal Herrick) and Jarryd Dobson (Deputy Governor Danforth).

An excellent approach to a classic text, that I am sure inspired the many school students dutifully taking notes in the audience. Beautiful and moving performances from another strong Acting Cohort and a very clever creative team.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Jon Green