Arthur Miller is undoubtedly one of America's leading playwrights and The Crucible is arguably his most powerful play.

This true story of bigotry, ignorance and superstition was written in the early Fifties at the time of the McCarthy communist witch hunts.

This tale of a witch hunt is set in Massachusetts in 1692 among settlers who have escaped oppression in their native England only to find themselves subject to religious bigotry in New England.

Every misfortune that has befallen members of this little community is blamed on witchcraft.

In this production, director, Matthew Williamson, allows the tension to mount steadily over four acts to a heart-rending climax.

There are some excellent performances. Richard Lindfield brings much colour to the character of the Reverend Parris, the new and unpopular minister. Peter Jukes is chilling as Deputy-Governor Danforth.

Head and shoulders above the cast was Des Potton as John Procter, the honest farmer who has a healthy contempt for those in authority but who pays the ultimate price.

Review by Peter Bailey, features@theargus.co.uk