THE CRUCIBLE Off-Broadway (Amazing!)

[EugLoven]

Posted: 2/14/08 at 12:12am

Just got back from attending a just-stunning Off-Broadway (regional transfer from Croton Falls) production of Arthur Miller's "The Crucible" currently playing at The ArcLight Theatre

INFORMATION HERE:
www.broadwayworld.com/viewcolumn.cfm?colid=24098

Absolutely extraordinary. A phenomenal piece all-around. Exceptional casting and I'm proud of this company stretching their legs in New York. Shows that devoted craft is everywhere (not just NYC). It's wonderful to see a "classic" being remounted off-Bway (where something-old is so often overshadowed by something-new).

Noteworthy performances (in the roles you'd expect to be noteworthy, of course) included Tituba (Walita), Abigail (Sherry Stregack), Mary Warren (Sari Caine), John Proctor (Simon MacLean), Elizabeth Proctor (Sarah Bennett) and Danforth (David Licht)

I was moved to tears (only the second show I've seen this-season that has done so!) during Act 2/Scene 3 "BECAUSE IT IS MY NAME!" moments. And wanted to reach out and SLAP Abby so many times! Or punch the judges in the face. Needless to say, it's hard to keep from being a vocal audience member sometimes! Such a timeless piece.

I know every word of this play by heart, but tonight, it was like I was hearing it all for the first time. The direction and the acting is so polished, so finely combed. And with a script like that, how can there be room for disappointment? I went with my friend (with whom I did the play back in high-school) so it was a real treat for the both of us.

The ArcLight is conveniently located 1 1/2 blocks from either 72nd Street station. (Uses a downstairs space of the neighboring church). Get your tickets, really. There was a LONG line at the box-office of people hoping to nab last-minute seats (full house).

And if you DO end up going... take a look at what is painted on the ceiling of the space. It's ironically beautiful.

INFORMATION HERE:
www.broadwayworld.com/viewcolumn.cfm?colid=24098


Updated On: 2/14/08 at 12:12 AM

[ashley0139]

Posted: 2/14/08 at 12:33am

The crucible is one of my favorite shows. I've been dying to see a really good production of it. Wish I could make it to the city to see it. Thanks for the review!

[broadwayfan7]

Posted: 2/14/08 at 12:35am

Thanks for sharing! Glad you enjoyed yourself!

[jeniferrenepatricia]

Posted: 2/14/08 at 1:04am

Thanks for the review. I'm purchasing tickets soon...Miller is my favorite playwright!!!!