Nick CouryThe Cal Poly theatre and dance department presents their winter production, a “unique interpretation” of Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible,” which opened Feb. 23 in the Alex and Fay Spanos Theatre located in the Performing Arts Center.
This production is not the average adaptation of a classic story, but resonates feelings and emotions of a more recent culture.
“It (the play) really speaks to the political climate of today’s society,” said Erma Stauffer, director of the play, and lecturer in the theatre and dance and communication studies program. “What is important is not the time period, but Miller’s message.”
Miller wrote the play to take a closer look at potentially bad situations in order to better understand them, and possibly prevent them from happening again.
“I want (the play) to lead to thought, understanding how witch-hunts start and how to stop them,” Stauffer said .
The new rendition of the play is also portrayed in the acting. The play is done in a technique called “viewpoint,” and Stauffer used it to achieve more natural acting.
“One of the things we do is have all 20 characters be on stage for the entire play, and encourage is in every scene,” Stauffer said.
Stauffer wants the people to see the play and leave asking questions concerning politics that the play discusses.
“Hopefully people will come and see a drama and be caught up in a story.”
Tickets are available through the Performing Arts Center Box Office for $12 for general admission, $10 for seniors and students and discount group rates are available. Tickets can also be purchased by calling 756-2787.