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Broadway Debut of 'John Proctor Is the Villain' Reimagines a Classic Through a #MeToo Lens

Kimberly Belflower's play, directed by Danya Taymor and starring Sadie Sink, opens at Booth Theatre with critical acclaim for its bold reinterpretation of 'The Crucible'.

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Overview

  • The play challenges Arthur Miller's portrayal of John Proctor, reframing him as a villain rather than a martyr, while exploring contemporary issues of power and abuse.
  • Set in a 2018 high school in rural Appalachia, the story follows students grappling with personal trauma and societal dynamics as they study 'The Crucible'.
  • Sadie Sink delivers a standout performance as Shelby, a teenager returning to her hometown under the weight of a hidden past and unresolved conflicts.
  • The production draws inspiration from the #MeToo movement and cultural reexaminations of historical narratives, incorporating references to real-life events like Taylor Swift's 2017 legal battle over sexual assault.
  • Directed by Tony winner Danya Taymor, the play has received praise for its nuanced storytelling, empathetic depiction of adolescence, and innovative staging.