Theatre Review

Captivating ‘Crucible’ vs. ‘cyberbullying’ at Wilbury

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Combining the theme of Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” with modern day teens engaged in cyberbullying makes for a thought-provoking, intense play by Philip Hawkins. The new play, cleverly staged and directed by Logan Serabian, gets its message across loud and clear, thanks to some top-notch performances by its five-member cast.

Staged in a high school class, where a teacher (Brien Lang) and four students (Jeff Hodge, Daraja Hinds, Shannon Hartman and Sarah Leach) are both taking English and rehearsing “The Crucible,” the 90-minute one-act play will hold your attention throughout.

Sarah Leach gives a brilliant portrayal as Mercedes, the new student, who brings a lot of baggage along with fervent Christian beliefs to the class. The other students immediately label her as weird and use the Internet to bully her.

The teacher involves the students in rehearsals for the play, with Mercedes taking the role of Abigail, with complicated situations and relations developing among them. It all hits the fan when a “burn page” shocks everyone.

“The Burn” is a play that should be seen by teenagers who have grown up with the Internet and in many cases are blind to the dangers of the misuse of Facebook and the Internet. Adults who, in many cases, are unaware of what is going on with social media will be shocked by the damage that can be done. There are many little subtleties in the juxtaposition of a classic piece of literature with modern technology. There’s a lot going on in this well-written play, so pay attention.

“The Burn” is at Wilbury Theatre, 40 Sonoma Court in Olneyville through February 3. Call 400-7100 for reservations, or check them out online at thewilburygroup.org.

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