They’ve staged a brilliant production of 1984, imagined what would have happened to the characters of Trainspotting in last year’s Users, and are now tackling a classic of American drama with The Crucible.
Tell Tale Theatre will be staging one of Arthur Miller’s best-loved plays at the Static Gallery next month – and their past form would indicate it will be well worth a look.
Miller’s play is set during the Salem witch trials of the 1690s, but serves as an allegory of 1950s McCarthyism, demonstrating sympathies that later saw the playwright up before the Senate amidst accusations of Communism.
Director Emma Whitley says: “The play is all about power, and explores the lengths humans will go to in order to achieve it. This is a timeless idea, and still resonates within society today. Our intention is to bring a fresh take on a classic masterpiece, creating an immersive, multimedia audience experience from the moment they enter the venue.”
Tell Tale Theatre is a community theatre group that was only set up three years ago, but its achievements so far have included reaching the semi-finals of Sky Arts’ Nation’s Best Am Dram competition. The company’s mentor was the actor Martin Shaw, who said: “I loved the openness and willingness of the people in Tell Tale Theatre and their absolute desire to learn.”
Not only have the cast been dedicated to The Crucible’s rehearsal schedule, but they have also been fundraising to ensure that the show’s success. One member of the group raised over £250 by writing a novel in a month, another group of actors did a sponsored day of improvisation, and one performer raised funds by providing Reiki sessions to family and friends.
Leanne Jones, producer and assistant director said: “Our group of actors have thoroughly enjoyed exploring the play’s dramatic themes, challenging our notions of good and evil. It is not only suspenseful and moving but it compels the audience to ask some difficult questions. That is the ambition of Tell Tale Theatre … creating challenging, engaging performance.”
Catch The Crucible at Static Gallery, Roscoe Lane, from 10–13 April. All performances start at 7.30pm plus a matinee on Saturday 13 April. Tickets are £6 on Wednesday, April 10, and £8/£10 all other dates, availableonline or by calling 0871 220 0260.
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