RAHS drama has decided to steer away from the happy-go-lucky classics to the more thought-provoking classics. This spring they are putting on The Crucible and its new companion show John Proctor is the Villain. Both of these shows deal with the heavier side of reality with the Salem Witch Trials and sexual assault, with John Proctor diving more in-depth into these sensitive topics. Because of this, the audience will see a main cast of exclusively upperclassmen to ensure these delicate matters are taken seriously.
These shows will run for two weekends, March 28-30 and April 3-6, with alternating performances. The Crucible will have performances on March 28th and 29th, as well on April 3rd and 5th. John Proctor is the Villain will be shown on March 29th and 30th, as well on April 4th and 6th.
Though these shows are heavier than most high schools do, both are extremely important. Senior Ayanna Churcher, who will play Abigail Williams in The Crucible, said, “By watching both the audience is invited into the world of The Crucible and John Proctor is the Villain; they get to look into the circular history of women in America.”
Seeing both shows will put into perspective how issues of abuse and coercion have been around for decades. Andy Zan (11), who plays Goody Proctor in The Crucible, said, “I think people should see both shows to be able to understand the perspectives of everyone. Seeing The Crucible first will really put things into context when you go see John Proctor.”
It’s very exciting for RAHS to be putting on shows that many schools would steer away from. Tass Colywright, who plays Shelby in John Proctor, said, “We aren’t hiding the truth and putting on Seussical, we are putting our foot down and telling stories about our own countries’ history and the sad history that is still being made all around the world today.”
RAHS Drama is stepping out of its comfort zone with this as Livia Thomas (12), who plays a narrator in The Crucible, said, “RAHS drama hasn’t put on two shows at the same time, so it gives us the opportunity to immerse ourselves into two different worlds. The shows are set in wildly different times but they both deal with issues involving power structures and scandals within a small community.”
In conclusion both of these shows are extremely powerful and you should go see one if not both of them.