This article first appeared in the St. Louis Beacon, Nov. 16, 2011 - Laughter echoed throughout the dark theater, as Notre Dame began its performance of Arthur Miller's "The Crucible." Written in 1952 when the nation was shaken up by the idea of communism, "The Crucible" takes us to 1692 in the little town of Salem, Mass., where, out of nowhere, the women are all being put on trial and hanged for witchcraft.
Young Betty (Rachel Rone) lies in bed ill, or struck by the devil as everyone is claiming. Her cousin Susanna (Renee Molner), who was with her when she fell ill, provokes everyone, saying this must be caused by witchcraft and she knows just who did it - Tituba (Emily Migalla) the innocent slave from Barbados. After being given the ultimatum to confess to walking with the devil or death, she, as more than half the townspeople will be forced to do, lies, saying she's guilty and pleading for forgiveness.
The story focused on John Proctor (Thomas Hederman) who had an affair with the accuser, Abigail (Claire Zimmerman). His wife, Elizabeth Proctor (Carly Uding), found out about it but forgave him anyways. Despite her strong Christian morals and constant honesty, Eizabeth was put on trial. Hederman and Uding had an undeniable chemistry as they battled internally and externally against right and wrong.
As the play progressed, pacing, which had begun to drag, sped up. Lines, which were sometimes hard to catch, became clear. And actors, who seemed to lack emotion, filled the entire gymatorium with their passion.
The stage was simple yet beautiful, and efficiently used. The stage crew quickly moved the settings from scene to scene. The lighting was efficient; and sound, although it had some glitches, worked well with what they had.
Notre Dame left audiences on the brink of tears, not quite sure what would come next, and astonished by the passionate rendering of The Crucible as it came to a close.
About the Cappies
The Critics and Awards Program for high school theater -- known as Cappies -- was formed in the aftermath of the Columbine shooting to celebrate writing and performing arts at America's high schools. It operates chapters across the nation.
St. Louis' program was launched in 2002-03.
At the end of the year, the top performers, technicians and reviewers are honored during a Tony-style gala.
The Beacon is happy to help spread the word by printing some reviews.
Jennifer Boston is a student at McCluer High School.