REVIEW: The Crucible (Scottish Ballet)

 The Crucible - ★★★★★ - Visceral

Festival Theatre: Thurs 1 – Sat 3 May 2025
Review by Rebecca Mahar

Review commissioned by, and originally published on All Edinburgh Theatre, 3 May 2025. Edited by Thom Dibdin.

Scottish Ballet’s revival of its 2019 production of The Crucible haunts the Festival Theatre with visceral intensity, translating its tale of 17th century American witch trials through the sharp storytelling of Helen Pickett’s contemporary ballet.

This is an adaptation of Arthur Miller’s 1953 play, a direct allegory for the political “witch hunts” by the House Un-American Activities Committee which questioned and persecuted many, including Miller, in the entertainment industry. Miller’s publication of such an allegory was an active and personally dangerous rejection of HUAC’s sweeping accusations.

Bruno Micchiardi as John Proctor and Kayla-Maree Tarantolo as Abigail in The Crucible. Pic: Rimbaud Patron.
The ballet distils Miller’s story down to its essentials. Despite halving the running time it still hits all the major plot points, expressed through the cohesive union of dance, music, and lighting.

Visit All Edinburgh Theatre to read the full review!


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