‘The Crucible’ Confirms Drama Club Talent

[incolumn]Two years ago I wrote a review of a regional theater’s production of “Doubt:  A Parable” by John Patrick Shanley.  The review began like this:

“What is great theater?

“Here’s my definition:  The combination of an excellent script, an excellent director and excellent actors — a combination that draws your whole being into the performance — so much so that when it is over you find it difficult to leave your seat.  It’s a unique and treasured experience that stays with you long after the play is over.”

That production of “Doubt: A Parable” was a professional production.  Professional director.  Professional actors.  Professional theater.

Fast forward to March 15-17, 2014, when the Salida High School drama club presented the famous Arthur Miller drama “The Crucible”.  The subject matter — the 1692 Salem, Massachusetts witch craft hysteria and trials — is difficult, and the characters that play out the drama are complex and perplexing.

As I took my seat, I heard a woman mention that the play was two and a half hours long. That’s a long drama! I braced myself for what might be a tough two and a half hours.  This was, after all, a high school drama club, without the benefit of drama classes, tackling an extremely difficult and lengthy drama. 

I’m a picky theater-goer.  I made a mental note as to how I could gracefully exit at intermission.  Just in case.

Five minutes into Act I, Scene 1, I breathed a sigh of relief.  It was going to be okay. Not much later, I realized that, just like “Doubt”, I could feel myself being drawn into the drama that was unfolding before me.   I was on the edge of my seat.  “The Crucible” made my heart race as its story played out before me.

But wait a minute. This is a high school drama club!  How could they pull me in so completely?  Me, a seasoned theater-goer?

The answer is simple.  First, they had a great script.  Second, drama club coach Devon Jencks Kasper provided superb direction.  Last but not least, the cast -— high school drama club kids with relatively little training — had enough natural talent to totally draw me into their splendid production of “The Crucible”.

Several days later, I’m still inspired. Salida is fortunate to have such talented, dedicated high school actors, and the gifted and giving Devon Jencks Kasper to nuture and direct them.  Imagine what they could do if they had a drama class together! 

It’s my hope that the drama club students will soon be given just that — the opportunity to have a drama class at Salida High School. They’ve earned it.