It is a while since I have seen The Crucible, I think it was a film version some years ago.  I remember studying it at school - but that was even longer ago, still, I was keen to see this new production at The Old Vic.  <<http://www.oldvictheatre.com/whats-on/2014/the-crucible/>>

As ever, before I went I had a quick look at the reviews and, for a change, they did not put me off.  However, a string of good reviews does give one high hopes.  Luckily I was not let down (although I was a bit distraught when I read that the running time was three and a half hours - but, Yaël Farber's direction keeps the pace up and you don't notice the hours passing).

Although Richard Armitage's John Proctor is the "bums on seats" factor, the whole cast is great.  Armitage is a brooding presence of a man, brought down by the machinations of a spurned lover.  Anna Madeley is moving as his wife, whose coldness has forced him into the arms of Abigail.  The girls, whether possessed or not, are terrifying!  And all the accusers and accused produce strong performances.  Staged in the round, you feel drawn into the action as the cast move on and off stage through the audience.

Thrilling stuff!