Milford High School brings “The Crucible” to the stage Nov. 6 and 8; Community Invited

The director, Mrs. Elli Swain, and produced by Drama Program Producer Noah Link, invite the community to see a Milford High School production of “The Crucible” this week.

“The Crucible” dramatizes the infamous witch trials as a wave of hysteria pits neighbor against neighbor: Powerful Message Still Today!

MILFORD, Del. — The Milford High School Drama Club will present Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” with two performances in the Milford High School Auditorium on Thursday, Nov. 6, at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 8, at 7 p.m. Tickets are sold at the door: $7 general admission and $5 for children and senior citizens.

Directed by Mrs. Elli Swain and produced by Drama Program Producer Noah Link, a Milford High School teacher since 2017, the fall production invites the community to celebrate student artists onstage and behind the scenes. Link said the show reflects the school’s commitment to student-centered learning and the power of the arts to build confidence and community.

Set in 1692 Salem, Massachusetts, “The Crucible” dramatizes the infamous witch trials as a wave of hysteria pits neighbor against neighbor. At the center is farmer John Proctor, who must choose between protecting his reputation and standing up for the truth. The play’s themes—mass fear, moral courage and justice—have long made it a staple for high school stages and classroom discussion.

How theatre builds real-world skills

Participation in school theatre equips students with the same “soft skills” employers and colleges prize. Rehearsals demand punctuality, time management, and personal accountability; performance days require poise under pressure. Students practice clear communication, active listening, and collaboration across roles—from actors and stage managers to set, sound, lighting, and costume crews. They analyze complex texts, solve real production problems on deadlines and accept constructive feedback, all while leading teams and meeting budget and safety expectations. The work cultivates empathy and ethical reasoning by asking students to inhabit perspectives different from their own, and it strengthens public-speaking skills that translate to job interviews, presentations, and civic life. Technical theatre provides hands-on experience with tools, design software, and live-event logistics, opening pathways to careers in the arts, media, and the growing events industry.

School Board Vice President Matt Bucher urged residents to fill the auditorium. “Our students have poured heart, discipline, and countless hours into this production,” Bucher said. “I’ll be there on opening night, and I hope to see a packed house cheering them on. When Milford shows up for the arts, our kids—and our community—win.”

Students say the experience is preparing them for life beyond the stage.

“Acting is helping me prepare for life by improving my confidence when speaking in front of crowds and large groups of people, and overall public speaking skills—something I’ll need in my planned career path,” said senior Michael McKain, who plays Deputy Gov. Danforth.
Senior Merary Haro-Purata, who portrays John Proctor, added: “Though everything is an act, the emotional aspect of theater really helps in the real world. Not only does it help you communicate, but it also brings an emotional and vulnerable side that people love and appreciate.”
Senior Myasia Satchell, Elizabeth Proctor in the production, said, “It’s helping me be prepared for things and being on time—helping me learn to use my time wisely and discipline myself a bit.”

How to See The Show

What: “The Crucible,” by Arthur Miller
Who: Milford High School Drama Club (Director: Mrs. Elli Swain; Drama Program Producer: Noah Link, Milford High School teacher since 2017)
When: Thursday, Nov. 6, 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 8, 7 p.m.
Where: Milford High School Auditorium
Tickets: Sold at the door — $7 general admission; $5 children and seniors

Community members are encouraged to attend, support local student performers and technicians, and join a conversation that still matters today: how truth, reputation and courage shape a town.