Delta Drama Department is currently rehearsing the American classic “The Crucible.”
Director Harvey Jordan suggested the school perform this play because of the challenging roles for collegiate actors and the powerful writing of the play.
The Crucible is the dramatization of the Salem Witch Trials that took place in the Province of Massachusetts Bay during 1692 and 1693.
“The play calls for a unit set,” said Jordan “there are five locations where the play takes place and a unit set allows for this, with a quick change of furnishings.”
“The set is fantastic, it is a church, a house, a barn and the Gallows all in one,” said Paula Sheil, English Professor who is cast as Rebecca Nurse.
The cast and crew have been rehearsing in Tillie Lewis Theater for about a month now. Each rehearsal consisted of running through the scenes with scripts in hand, using lighting, sound cues and rehearsal costumes.
“When other productions have a tech week, where they add the sound cues for the cast to learn, we have been working with them from day one,” said Sheil.
Although Arthur Miller’s classic has been done by many casts at many different locations, this production is different.
“For this production I am trying to emphasize the explosiveness of the piece,” said Jordan.
Delta’s production will be using costumes that are both made here and rented from other theater companies, to accurately depict the era. The cast also has make-up requirements, especially those who are playing older characters in the play.
“We placed heavy emphasis on wigs and aging for the cast members that are college age, playing older characters,” said Jordan.
Steven Amaral, a drama major cast in the role of Thomas Putnam, is one of the actors that will be using wigs and make-up to portray the character.
“This show is a great opportunity for me. There are two young men in their 20’s that I get to do old age makeup on. One is about 80 and the other is 60,” said Carol Barry, makeup artist.
Showtimes for “The Crucible” are 8 p.m. April 27-28 and May 4-5; 2 p.m. April 29 and May 6 in the Tillie Lewis Theater. Tickets cost $10 for students and seniors, or $12 general admission and are available at the box office located on the first floor of the Locke Center. Bring your student I.D. or schedule.
