One Hell of a Ride
Posted by Kelly O'Sullivan on 11/29/2007The Crucible closed last Sunday, and it’s been one hell of a ride. Counting from the very first rehearsal and with understudies going on, we’ve had 3 different Judge Danforths, 3 Elizabeth Proctors, 2 Rev. Parises, and 2 Rev. Hales. You might think that kind of switching around would be exhausting or disorienting. Yes, it can be tiring. We’ve had more than a few “put-in” rehearsals (thankfully we’re always rewarded by delicious “put-in pies”). But for the most part, I think the cast changes have given the play fresh energy and forced us all to be better, more present actors.
After about 4 weeks into performing the play for an audience, 3 new folks came in and took on their roles with enormous courage. I admire them so much. I know that Austin has faced criticism for his performance, and I respect differing opinions. I personally found him to be one of the most intelligent, reactive, and inspiring actors with whom I have ever had the honor of sharing a stage. He and Fran both make you better just by working with them. They listen and respond with the kind of spontaneity most actors spend their whole lives trying to find. Their interpretations of the role were different because they are drastically different human beings, but I thought they were both brilliant.
I can’t say I’ll miss being hoarse all the time or the myriad of bruises on my body, but I will miss the discussions provoked by the show and the people involved. I feel very grateful to have worked with such a high caliber of actors and director on a truly worthwhile and timely play. And if you haven’t seen it, check out an article in the 11/15 NY Times entitled: “African Crucible: Cast as Witches, Then Cast Out.” Another reason Salem, 1692 doesn’t seem too far away.