The Crucible
at Yorba Linda High School

Reviewed on December 2, 2016

Martin Perez
Aliso Niguel High School
Submitted for publication to OC Varsity Arts

"The Crucible" brings witchcraft to Yorba Linda
written by Martin Perez, a sophmore at Aliso Niguel High School

On the darkest nights, witches come out to haunt, in Yorba Linda High School's production of "The Crucible." In this wicked tale, the Salem witch trials are brought back to life, and corruption and manipulation are revealed in this Puritan town.

Rural farmer John Proctor, played by Ian Dembek, attempts to hold strong to his values as everyone around him becomes accused for witchery. Even in the midst of accusations towards him, his wife, and his friends, Proctor is able to stay true to his moral character. Proctor's loyalty and care towards his wife and friends cause him to act angrily and impulsively to defend his friends' honor. Dembek's use of impulsive movements and bold actions help distinguish him from the rest of the chaotic, corrupt characters of the court, and give him command of the stage.

The teenage antagonist Abigail Williams, portrayed by Nicole Stewart, causes the unraveling of the deadly trial in Salem. Williams' powerful, manipulating attitude demonstrates her control over the town, and her omnipresent power in the city. Stewart depicts the many sides of Abigail's personality, from her desperate love for Proctor, to her corrupt manipulation of the court, to her malicious reveling in the hanging of others.

During the witch trials, Reverend John Hale and Deputy Governor Danforth represent opposing ideas of the trial. Reverend John Hale, played by Hagen Cloward, exemplifies a calm, reasonable tone in contrast to the severity of the court. Towards the end of the show, Hale begins to realize the corruption and harshness of the court and understands the manipulative power of Abigail over the townspeople. Cloward's loud, preaching voice contrasts with the harsh, accusing tone of the other judges. Deputy Governor Danforth, portrayed by Cooper Summers, attracts all attention in the court with his imposing appearance. Summers' loud, booming voice gives him great command of the stage, and exemplifies his judicial power.

Stage management, by Kara Hager, gives accuracy to light and sound effects throughout the show. Cues for light changes arrive on time, and background sounds are perfectly timed in the story.

Yorba Linda's production of "The Crucible" beautifully presents the importance of honoring ones name and ones honor, even through despite pressure to do otherwise.

Kassidy Ordish
Aliso Niguel High School
Submitted for publication to OC Varsity Arts

Witches are conjuring something wicked at Yorba Linda
written by Kassidy Ordish, a senior at Aliso Niguel High School

The lights go down and soon the black theater is replaced by the color red and the eerie sound of girls laughing and chanting around the fire is heard. The mood is set and Yorba Linda High School's spine-chilling production of "The Crucible" is about to begin.

Originally written as a response to the spread of McCarthyism in the United States during the Cold War, Arthur Miller's "The Crucible" depicts the witch trials that occurred in Salem, Massachusetts, in the late 1600s and the fear that was caused alongside them.

Ian Dembek, who plays the incredibly stubborn but somewhat broken John Proctor, consistently commands the stage through emotional outbursts and a strong voice. Dembek's interpretation of Proctor's struggle, in his final passionate monologue where he takes inspiration from his wife and the bravery of others sentenced to death, is emotional and convincing.

Proctor's wife, Elizabeth, portrayed by the talented Macy Warner, first comes across as somewhat cold and reserved towards her husband, suggesting that he has wronged her in some way. However, as the play progresses, it is soon clear that although she cannot quite forgive him, she loves him dearly and is able to see the goodness inside him.

The play's antagonist and primary cause for the trials taking place is the deceitful and manipulative Abigail Williams, portrayed by Nicole Stewart. Stewart brings high energy to the show, and though playing a young girl, Stewart makes it clear that Abigail's devious and scheming mind will stop at nothing to get what it wants, which in this case is Elizabeth dead and John to herself.

Rose Pell, who plays the Proctor's servant, Mary Warren, provides a nice contrast to Stewart's malevolent behavior. With a high voice and many emotional breakdowns, her childlike demeanor reminds us that these girls even though still children, nonetheless have a strong effect on the town.

Overall, Yorba Linda's production of "The Crucible" is both chilling and moving, with a strong cast that captures the conflict at the heart of this story.

Josiah Haugen
Fullerton Union High School
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook Page

Fear Takes Root in Yorba Linda High School's Production of "The Crucible."
written by Josiah Haugen, a senior at Fullerton Union High School

Written during the height of the Red Scare and McCarthyism in the United States, "The Crucible" tackles the ideas of fear of the unknown and society's desire for an explanation. The show follows the community of Salem during the infamous witch trials of the 1600's and a young farmer, John Proctor, hoping to make sense of the situation.

Ian Dembek, portraying John Proctor, brings a wonderful dynamic to the stage exhibiting the strength of the character through his physicality yet not failing to reveal the soft, fearful side of the character. Over the entirety of the show, Dembek skillfully manifests the physical and emotional deterioration of John Proctor, placing a greater weight in his walk and movement.

One of the show's most outstanding cast members is Rose Pell playing the young and conflicted Mary Warren. Pell brings an infectious energy to the stage allowing the character to live in her body while displaying masterly control over her movements and voice. Pell particularly shines during the court scene, as she never fails to give true reactions to the accusations, adding to the overall intensity of the scene.

Playing the manipulative Abigail Williams is the charismatic Nicole Stewart. Stewart never falters as she seamlessly transitions between the multiple personas of her character, from the young, innocent Abigail to the manipulative and intimidating bully of the other young girls. This shift between personas manifests itself within Stewart's vocal tone, going from soft and light to harsh and strong.

Calling the show from the control booth, stage manager Kara Hager allows it to proceed with effortless transitions and wonderfully executed lighting and sound cues. Throughout the show, Hager juggles many cues, some of which stack on top of each other, and yet never falters.

As an ensemble, the cast works together well in order to tell the story. There are moments that lack energy; however, this never detracts from the overall performance. All together, Yorba Linda puts forward a strong show that seeks to pose the question: "What happens when we let fear take control instead of reason?"