Adaptation,+language,+style,+and+time+period



 =//__Adaptation & Style __//​= ​

When working with an adaptation with a play as rich and timeless as the crucible, you have to be gentle. Arthur miller wrote his play as a reminder that Mob rule and Hysteria cannot and should not pronounce justice, Truth and Righteousness should. We however, have no adaptation for the dialogue, costumes, and time period. Arthur Miller's play can stand on its own in this aspect. But as for style we are having hidden meanings in the props, costumes and lighting. We want the colors and the styles of the costumes to denote their status, occupation, age, and emotions (sad, happy, innocent, angry, etc) The idea is for the audience to get a feel of this person the first time they appear on stage.These colors will be sharp and hard to miss, but beautiful just the same. The Props that will appear as every day fixtures but will have a dual effect. For example, during the proceedings of the trials the judges tables will be suspend in the air to denote a different level of spirituality than the town's people. Another example is when they are announcing sentencing. A light will stream through the windows where a cross will be positioned and create a glowing effect on the cross. Almost like God is judging as well. The lighting will be dim with a lot of contrast, shadowing and creepy to help portray a sickness settling over the town and destroying it. The point is to portray how evil can creep in and suck the life out of a small utilitarian town...  LANGUAGE: W e need language at times in order to express our gestures or communicate feelings. In this production language is a big part of this production. A lot of things are left out and relied on to be communicated with speech and body language. For example, We never see the illicated affair of Abby and John on stage, but the first meeting we see them commuincate that something did happen. John wants it to disappear and Abby wants it to resume. This is just one example of how language needs to be expressed perfectly in order to bring this play truly to life

Time Period Crucible time period is very important to this play. By sticking with this particular period of time you are able to keep the play's importantance as well. You need this play to take place in a time where women/ children were the listeners. Where they kept silent, caretakers in the home and birthed children. Where children worked just as hard as their parents and did not have a voice. This place would not have the same affect if it took place in the 21st century. This time is also big on modesty (dress from neck to ankles) and superstition. Where simple life reigned supereme, and you always went to church. if not you were an outcast. If you mess with this period of time you mess with the whole play.