The crucible

Elements of Production – Major PerformanceThe Crucible is commonly perceived as a complex work, thematically using characters and setting, to establish Miller??™s parallelism; my initial misgivings of performing such a classic example of American literature concerned me until the performances itself, but the experience was very rewarding. I gained insight on how to work cooperatively in a group of people with a diverse range of skills, whilst learning new skills in performance. The characterization, team work, constructive criticisms, and music elements of this production helped me to understand my strengths and weaknesses as a performer. Throughout the entire creative process, the character of Tituba was dynamic and interesting. After reading The Crucible, I recognized her immediately as a victim of Abigail??™s plot, but I also found her as a ??? relief??? from the dreary realism of Salem life. Her diverse cultural beliefs from the society of which she had been enslaved, creates another perspective for the audience.

Tituba can also be perceived as a catalyst: Without Tituba??™s confession to Reverend Hale, it is improbable that Abigail would have been supported by the other girls while her defense was so weak. Prior even to this cataclysmic event, was Tituba??™s conjuring; despite its visual absence in the play, it has an essential role in cause depicted in scene 1, establishing a plotline. Without Parris??™ interference in this preface, then The Crucible would have no cause. I believe Miller intended Tituba to represent the group of elected officials who agreed to the (communist) accusations against other parties in order to salvage their careers. In this light, Tituba can be perceived, not as a victim, but as a reflection of the malevolent nature of politics that swept America during the 1950??™s. As an actor, it was very hard to medium both perceptions (of victim/ perpetrator) into the small performance time, but I resolved to depict Tituba as both; she was the typical victim, but I utilized her ethnicity as a means to portray her ??? darker??? side.

This was not to degrade the Barbados culture, but it was the only opportunity to express Miller??™s intent of parallelism. I tried to create a sinister character trait by emphasizing certain script:??? How man times he bid me kill you Mr. Parris??¦. He say Mr. Parris must be kill!??¦. He bid me rise out of my bed and cut your throat!???[Act 1, The Crucible, Arthur Miller]