The Crucible
at Archbishop McCarthy High School

Reviewed on November 22, 2015

Neil Goodman
North Broward Preparatory School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

In a world of petulant priests, would-be witches, and terror-filled trials, one man must choose between his life and his good name. The students of Archbishop McCarthy High School showed just how heart breaking a choice like this can be during their production of The Crucible.

Written in 1953 by Arthur Miller, The Crucible takes place in 1692 Salem and shows the disastrous outcome of mixing a legal system with a belief system. Often viewed as a protest play, The Crucible was written as an allegorical response to McCarthyism and features a group of young girls accusing other townspeople of witchcraft in order to serve their own motives. The story centers on John Proctor, husband of one of the accused, and his struggle to maintain his integrity while attempting to prevent the execution of innocents.

Matthew Salas played the honest yet flawed farmer John Proctor. Salas portrayed the leading man with gusto and had no trouble adding steadfast intensity to his line delivery and physicality. Also, Salas displayed a dynamic chemistry with both his ex-lover, Abigail, and his wife, Elizabeth. Elizabeth Proctor, played by Brianna Eljaua, offered an appealing contrast to her husband with her calming presence, even when she herself was being accused of witchcraft. Eljaua had a masterful understanding of her character arc, which gave Elizabeth a degree of believability usually unattainable for a high school student.

Deputy Governor Danforth, played by Nicholas Palazzo, had a stern and powerful stage presence that added tension and gravity to any scene he was in. Often opposing Danforth in court, Reverend Hale was thoughtfully played by the talented Kevin Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick's command of both dialogue and moments of silence aided in Hale's transformation from a pious priest to a broken non-believer. In addition, Rebecca Correa's portrayal of Mary Warren was equally empathetic and eerie, which was evident in her consistent physicality and reactions.

Looking at tech, the set worked perfectly to accommodate a large cast and display four different settings in a black box theater with minimal transition time. Transitions and technical cues were executed quickly and quietly under the command of stage manager Christine Fanchini.

The show as a whole had high energy from start to finish—no easy task for such a long play. However, there were moments when excessive yelling detracted from the importance of a scene, but the discipline and focus of the talented cast was clear throughout.

The students of Archbishop McCarthy High School succeeded in providing a haunting and memorable performance of The Crucible.

Claudia Moncaliano
The Sagemont School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

"The Crucible," written by Arthur Miller, shares a heart-wrenching tale of the lives that were lost to the cruelties of the Salem Witch Trials. This drama became a classic American piece after winning the Tony Award for Best Play in 1953 on Broadway. Archbishop Edward A. McCarthy High School delivered this production with a clear grasp on what it meant to live in a time where the accused were blacklisted and it was safer to confess a lie than to hold on to your known truth.

Matthew Salas, as John Proctor, brought a high level of intensity to the stage as he changed demeanor before the relentless magistrate, his wife Elizabeth Proctor (Brianna Eljaua), and his mistress Abigail Williams (Bella Miulescu). Eljaua and Salas created beautiful pictures on the black box theater stage as they embraced one another in the face of death. Eljaua provided much appreciated levels to the piece as a poised yet tortured woman. Miulescu could not have been more convincing of her possessed state and manipulative mind as she dove to the ground, cried for salvation, and accused more than half the town of witchcraft. Her only care for another was shown through her passionate pleading for Proctor's hand in her persistent battle to make him hers.

Playing the role of the formidable antagonist Deputy Governor Danforth, Nicholas Palazzo contributed a powerful presence to the stage while delivering a high level of maturity and command over the court through his characterization. Similarly, Kevin Fitzpatrick as Reverend John Hale conveyed a fully developed character which experienced both a dedication to the court and a fearful guilt and regret for those who were hung.

Tituba, Abigail's first victim, was played by Marisabel Correa who mimicked the shrilling screams of the possessed children and helpless cries of the doomed elder women as she longed for Barbados and to be free of accusations. Some actors lost their way in diction and volume as we heard more paralleled yells than levels in a few scenes. However, others found a great place to rest while still showcasing their talents. Alexandria Palazzo, as Mrs. Ann Putnam, communicated her hurt and angst from losing seven children as she begged the consideration of witchcraft upon Betty Parris, played by Katie Diaz, who shook and claimed to fly under demonic control alongside Abigail.

The three hour long production was engaging, eye-opening, and profound. By the final scene, the urgency and reality of the corruption between church and state was remarkably vivid to the characters on stage as they plead for one more chance at life and sanity within the magistrate.

Carmen Horn
North Broward Preparatory School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

Everyone is in league with the devil and no one is safe from persecution in Archbishop Edward A. McCarthy High School's production of The Crucible.

The Crucible by Arthur Miller centers around the Witch trials of the 1690s in the town of Salem, Massachusetts. When Betty Parris, the minister's daughter, suddenly falls ill with a mysterious affliction, the town looks to orphan Abigail Williams, who claims that witchcraft is the source. With suspicions running high and accusations flying about, the members of the town turn on each other, using this religious persecution as a way to settle perceived wrongs, especially the devious Abigail, who wants to get her former lover's, John Proctor, wife out of the way so she can have him all to herself.

The lecherous but righteous John Proctor was played by Matthew Salas. Salas had consistently high energy throughout the production and commanded the scenes he was in with his projection. Though he kept the intensity high for the majority of the show, the scenes with his wife, Elizabeth, were calm and believable. The two truly connected, and their interactions created a strong foundation for the difficulties surrounding them. Elizabeth was played by Brianna Eljaua with poise and composure, every inch the good Christian woman. She was calm and collected, with careful delivery and a quiet strength, serving as an excellent foil to the bombastic John.

Similarly calm in the face of all the energy and suspicion was Reverend John Hale, played by Kevin Fitzpatrick. He stayed sensible and coolheaded for the majority of the show, but showed growth as the weight of what he was involved in settled on him. Deputy Governor Danforth, the judge in the trials, had a gravity about him, able to control a scene even when he was speaking quietly. Rebecca Correa played the nervous Mary Warren, one of the girls accusing people of witchcraft, consistently and convincingly, staying active in the back of every scene and portraying believable character growth and decisions.

The rest of the girls were similarly reactive in the courtroom possession scene. The whole cast maintained a very high level of energy throughout the show. Everyone reacted to the action and stayed invested in every scene.

Lighting and sound effects added a significant level to this production thanks to stage manager Christine Fanchini. Makeup, by Bonnie Lynch, and costumes helped set the stage in the 1600s, and were well and subtly done.

This production of The Crucible did a good job of portraying the themes of this iconic play: truth, lies, death, trust, suspicion, and, most importantly, forgiveness.

Isabel Hidalgo
Cooper City High School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

The word ‘crucible' can be defined as, ‘a place or situation that forces people to change or make difficult decisions'. With this definition in mind, it is easy to see why there is so much spiritual strife and impassioned anguish that permeates Archbishop McCarthy High School's production of the well known play, The Crucible by Arthur Miller.

Though the setting of the play is in Salem, Massachusetts in the year 1692, the work was originally written in 1953 as an allegory toward the McCarthyism--a campaign against people thought to be associated with communism--that raged throughout the United States at the time of its creation. Throughout this play, the many characters must deal with various fateful decisions; they must choose between keeping their pride or their lives, being honest or lying to save their lives, and they must choose whether to fight and die for their beliefs or keep what they feel hidden.

When a group of Puritan girls are discovered comitting a grave sin--dancing in the middle of the night in the forest--the consequences of their actions end up involving the entire village of Salem as they blame their midnight escapades on witchcraft. Abigail Williams, played by Bella Miulescu, leads the group of girls as they begin accusing and trying the many women and even some men of the village with the serious charge witchcraft and wizardry. Miulescu's physical and emotional intensity, as well as her commitment to her character throughout the production made for an interesting, albeit malicious role that left the room silent in her wake.

John Proctor, played by Mathew Salas, and his wife Elizabeth, played by Brianna Eljaua, are the opposing factors to Abigail and her posse and pay dearly for it throughout the play. As unfortunate event after unfortunate event pile upon them, the two once estranged individuals become closer and in the end, both feel a rekindling of the love they once felt fervidly for each other. Salas carried his character's poetic lines and actions out with a power and dignity typical of his prideful character. Eljaua was phenomenal as Elizabeth Proctor, reacting and immersing herself deeply into every scene she appeared in. Every action and emotion that crossed Eljaua's face was completely genuine. It was refreshing to see her calm, strongly sentimental behavior amongst the general intensity of every other character.

The cast and crew, led by stage manager Christine Fanchini, which had limited space to operate in, did a commendable job in transitioning scenes efficiently. In the makeup department, Bonnie Lynch did a detailed, wonderful job in transforming students for their individual roles.

Archbishop McCarthy's production of The Crucible is a powerful, profound work that no one will be able to blink from their minds anytime soon.

Daniel Agmon
JP Taravella HS
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

Archbishop McCarthy High School provided a powerful afternoon of drama at the theatre: recounting Arthur Miller's renowned and controversial play, The Crucible and reminding the audience why this piece is a staple of the American theatre repertoire.

Written in 1953, The Crucible received largely mixed reviews and surprisingly went on to win the Tony award for "Best Play". Risking his own life and career, Miller was blacklisted by the US government during the McCarthy era when he wrote The Crucible as an allegory for the incredulous accusations of Communism that were taking place in America. The play takes place in the late 17th century during the horrific Salem Witch Trials, when the church governed the law of the land. The righteous yet deeply flawed John Proctor, is put to the test when his ex-mistress, the young and seductive Abigail Williams, accuses his wife of the highest treason of all – witchcraft. This little black lie soon spirals out of control, ensuing mass chaos throughout the New England town.

Overall, the play was superior with an admirable cast beautifully delivering Miller's poetic language and embodying the play's strong moral messages. The intense emotional commitment was evident in every actor. The production swept the audience back in time, effortlessly capturing the bleak period it was set in.

Matthew Salas, who starred as the authoritative John Proctor, gave a commanding performance, utilizing superb realistic choices. Proctor's wife, Elizabeth, portrayed by Brianna Eljaua displayed many deep emotional levels. Her vocal quality and diction were outstanding. The chemistry between Salas and Ejaua was electric and the naturalistic elegance between the two provided a lovely hint of romance.

The devilish Abigail Williams depicted by Bella Miulescu gave a chilling performance with exceptional energy. Her use of imagery, specifically when she saw these "supposed" spirits, was both eerie and magnetic. Kevin Fitzpatrick playing the agreeable Reverend John Hale attributed to the show immensely with his delightful presence. Other standouts were Liam Mihoulides as Judge Hathorne and Marisabel Correa as Tituba.

Tech-wise, the show was perfect; from the lavishly detailed set to the thrilling, exquisite lighting, seamlessly transitioning from shades of navy blue to luscious and dramatic shades of rouge during the climactic moments of the play. The music, orchestrated live, underscored every scene adding, a subtle, yet unnerving tone to the piece. Stage management, run by Christine Fanchini, was exceptional, as cues were never missed.

Archbishop McCarthy High School's haunting production of The Crucible was majestic, prompting the audience to reflect upon their own conscience, and ponder about the importance of loyalty, love, and the ultimate lesson: to always speak the truth.

Fiona Baquerizo
American Heritage School
Submitted for publication to The Forum

What happens when your only savior turns against you? When there is no separation between State and God? When there is no chance for salvation? In Archbishop McCarthy High School's production of The Crucible, those associated with witchcraft were not only condemned to hell…they were condemned to hang.

Over time, the Tony Award winning play has become an American classic. Written in 1953 by Arthur Miller, The Crucible tells the bone-chilling story of the seventeenth century Salem Witch Trials in the Province of Massachusetts Bay. When John Proctor ends his affair with the young and naïve Abigail Williams, she accuses his wife Elizabeth of participating in black magic. Soon enough, hundreds of women are being accused, imprisoned, and hanged for their alleged covenant with Lucifer.

Archbishop McCarthy's production was raving with energy and intensity all the way through. John Proctor (Matthew Salas) is a firm, hard-working man that fights for his wife's acquittal. Salas showed maturity in incredibly intense moments- whether he was threatening the bishops' power or pleading for his own innocence. His booming voice commanded the stage and his emotional commitment was stellar. Elizabeth Proctor (Brianna Eljaua) is John's simple wife, who hurts from her knowing of his affair. Eljaua is an actress beyond her years. She transformed from a taciturn and pained housewife to a rugged prisoner –yet her loyalty to John never faltered. The actors' chemistry was impeccable, and ultimately their scene or reuniting after many months in jail was the most powerful – told through complete silence.

The manipulative and sinful Abigail Williams (Bella Miulescu) is the cause of such unholy ruckus in town. After being caught drinking blood and dancing naked in the woods, she weaves a web of lies to protect herself and avenge others, turning the Church against innocent and good Christians. Miulescu played "possessed" quite convincingly. Her shrieks of corruption and evil pierced through the theater, and as she pretended to see Lucifer, her energy was non-stop. Deputy Governor Danforth (Nicholas Palazzo) was the head of the court. He was calm and dominated his scenes with simplicity. His true investment in his work and accusations was what showed stark contrast between the Church's authority and the people's pleas for salvation.

The featured roles in this show were nothing short of integral. Tituba (Marisabel Correa) only appeared in a couple of scenes, but her rabid insanity and ability to create an extremely distinct character had lasting effects. Thomas Putman (Rommel Pichel) had fantastic articulation and his few moments on stage had presence and power.

Over the course of the show, the yelling became belabored and a few cries seemed contrived. However, this production's jackpot was timing. Whether it be a witty remark from Giles Corey (Ryan McCarty) or a horrified shriek – all moments combined seamlessly and there was a great sense of ensemble and community.

The drastic light changes to blood-red washes added an element of fear to the production. Bonnie Lynch, make-up artist, did a great job distinguishing ages and states of distress.

At the end of The Crucible, John Proctor breaks: destroying all claims of his innocence and belief in God. Archbishop McCarthy High School portrayed an unbelievably intense story with horror and conviction, showing the detrimental effects of not having state and religious separation. Not only were bonds of love severed, but also bonds of trust- between man and man; as well as man and God.

Erin Cary
NSU University School
Submitted for publication to Maverick News

Justice, law, and religion – a triad that has baffled able minds for centuries. At Archbishop McCarthy High School's recent production of The Crucible, students grappled with these concepts in an amazing display of physicality, diction, and intensity.

The Crucible begins when a young man, John Proctor, ends his affair with a country girl, Abigail Williams. In order to destroy John's wife Elizabeth, Abigail constructs an intricate scheme that leads to the hanging of countless innocents in the Salem witch trials. An allegory to the anti-communist Red Scare of the Cold War era, The Crucible was written by Arthur Miller and premiered on Broadway in 1953. It won that year's Tony Award for Best Play. The show, set in 1692 Massachusetts, evokes the timeless and universal theme of true justice.

Matthew Salas, as John Proctor, showed constant engagement and intensity throughout the whole production. His physicality and diction made his performance incredibly believable and commendable. With just a hand on his wife's shoulder or a glare at his enemy's figure, he conveyed the limitless emotion of his character. Brianna Eljaua, as Elizabeth Proctor, portrayed a strong depth of character and energy. Through the defiance in her voice and the strength of her stance, she depicted a wife who was both obedient and commanding. The two leads worked together beautifully, creating precious and engaging moments between them.

Bella Miulescu, portraying the vindictive Abigail Williams, produced an intensity so strong that it was often frightening. Her shouts and convulses kept the audience's attention concentrated, and she remained engaged even when the focus was not on her. Kevin Fitzpatrick, as the Reverend John Hale, displayed a strong knowledge of his role, depicting a clear character arch with determined diction and physicality. His pleas for true justice earned the sympathy and admiration of many audience members. Nicholas Palazzo, as the Deputy Governor Danforth, remained collected throughout the production, commanding the stage. His control of physicality demanded respect and solidified his character. The diversity in his intensity made up for moments when other actors may have appeared overdramatic.

Marisabel Correa, as the unpopular Tituba, kept a consistent accent and steady energy throughout the production. Brooke Whitaker and Rommel Pichel, as Rebecca Nurse and Thomas Putnam respectively, also commanded attention and remained engaged. The featured cast admirably remained lively and attentive from start to finish and helped to connect the story through many turns, although the show's pacing seemed at times slow.

The show's makeup, headed by Bonnie Lynch, aided in expressing the age and health of many roles, even when these elements weren't expressed well by the actor. The stage management was very precise and effective with the few scene changes that they had.

Both the cast and crew at Archbishop McCarthy High School pulled off an inspiring, thought-provoking, and convincing performance. The students showed a dedication and energy that helped them triumph over the difficulties of the show, making The Crucible an outstanding success!