“John Proctor is the Villain,” starring Sadie Sink (“Stranger Things”), is a new original comedy on Broadway, which is being performed at the Booth Theatre in New York City.
The synopsis is: At a high school in a rural town in Georgia, an English class is studying “The Crucible” by Arthur Miller, but the students are more preoccupied with navigating young love, sex education, and a few school scandals.
As they delve into the classic American play, the students begin to question the play’s perspective and the validity of naming John Proctor the show’s hero.
This production was expertly directed by Tony winner Danya Taymor (“The Outsiders”) who is able to balance the comedy and emotional moments quite well, from a script by playwright Kimberly Belflower, which is rich in character development.
It is able to flip the coin and tell the story from the five young women, who are running on pop music, hope, and fury, as this play is about to shed light on some of the darkest secrets in their town.
Sadie Sick is superb as Shelby Holbrook, the “bad girl,” and she steals every scene she is in. Gabriel Ebert is also noteworthy as the English teacher who is teaching his students “The Crucible,” while Amila Yoo is memorable as Raelynn Nix, Shelby’s former best friend.
In fact, everyone in the cast is unique, and is able to bring something distinct and refreshing to the show.
The Verdict
Overall, “John Proctor is the Villain” is a compelling play from start to finish, which will sustain the audience’s attention for its entire duration. It has it all: drama, passion, wit and levity, and it ascertains that the future for this new generation is not bound by the past.
There is a rawness and authenticity to this show like no other, and it will certainly spark conversations with viewers, and it will stick with them, long after it is over.
It will certainly inspire the younger viewers to check out Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible,” so that is an added bonus.
Look for this production to be a major contender at the upcoming Tony Awards. “John Proctor is the Villain” garners 4.5 out of 5 stars.
