Little Theatre's 'Crucible' finely rendered

By Lorraine Lucciola, Standard-Times correspondent

Mass hysteria explodes on stage this weekend at Bristol Community College, courtesy of the Little Theatre of Fall River, with a riveting production of "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller.

"Crazy children are jangling the keys of the kingdom," claims an angry John Proctor, played by Daniel Davis Tripp, in his first role with Little Theatre. Mr. Tripp rises to perfection in a solid performance laced with keen level-headedness and provoked outbursts.

His incredulity and tirades are aimed at the work of a frenzied group of young women in Salem, Mass., who claim, one by one, to have literally lost their minds through witchcraft. This period in Salem's history culminated in the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692.

Reverend Parris' daughter, Betty (Shandy Monte), is suddenly stricken with an unexplainable, yet incapacitating affliction that sends her in and out of consciousness. The girl's delirious attempts to propel herself out of bed and into the air are eerily executed by this actress.

This horrific commotion and dangerous storytelling erupts after the girls were seen dancing in the woods. Surely, such a wicked illness must be the work of the Devil, witches, or spirits.

You, too, may believe it when a chorus of screaming young women surround the stage and orchestra pit, hurling heinous accusations at each other, the audience, the other characters on stage and anybody who will listen. It is a powerful theatrical moment, driving home with authentic severity the hysteria that has taken over the community.

As Reverend Samuel Parris, Richard Pelletier is a welcome addition to the drama. He usually directs and appears in comedic pieces; the impressive caliber of his talent is seen here.

Elizabeth-Teixeira Ward as Tituba provides yet another surprise for viewers. The character, a servant, comes from Barbados. Her presence in Puritan New England is incongruous in every way. She practices witchcraft, and is called "the Devil's servant." Ms. Teixeira-Ward beautifully conveys absolute fear and hysteria when she is blamed for using her dark magic on the town's young women.

Holly Costar appears as Abigail Williams. She is finely versed in delivering a necessary measure of melodrama. Ann Putnam is played by Laura Tavares Bomback, who becomes so immersed in the role that she is scary. William Soares plays her husband, Thomas Putnam, with gentility and kindness.

The fragile personality of Mary Warren is expertly presented by Jaimie Raposa. Her china-doll expressions and fluid movements are finely crafted, convincing us that she can break at any moment.

Linda Monchik gives a down-to-earth performance as John Proctor's dutiful wife, Elizabeth. David Faria is exceptional as Reverend John Hale. Mr. Faria brings specific nuances to every character he plays. As John Hale, he is gentle, devout and persistent in finding answers.

Joe Wallace is captivating as the relentless Deputy-Governor Danforth. Little Theater costume supervisor Fran Petisca does an admirable job in her stage debut as Rebecca Nurse.

Director James Tavares hits his mark with "The Crucible." Against a stark and unyielding white stage drop, with only a worn black wooden table and some chairs and benches on stage, the mounting drama and mesmerizing quality of this study in psychological warfare prospers under his capable guidance. Less is more, much more, in Little Theatre's impressive production.

"The Crucible" will be repeated tonight at 8 and tomorrow at 2 p.m. in the Margaret L. Jackson Arts Center of BCC, 777 Elsbree St., Fall River. Tickets are $12, $10 for students and seniors, and $5 for children age 12 and under. For reservations, call the Little Theatre box office at (508) 675-1852.

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