Synopsis
In 1691 Puritan New England, fear and superstition were rampant. Singing, dancing and amusement of any kind was forbidden. The devil was everywhere. Five girls coming of age in Salem Village, desperate for release of their thoughts and feelings, find an ally in Tituba, a black slave who longs for freedom. Deep in the woods the girls make a pact and build a sisterhood. Then alliances are formed, promises made and broken, power taken. Afflicted: Daughters of Salem tells the story of the Salem girls—Abigail Williams, the leader, Ann Putnam, Mercy Lewis, Mary Warren and Betty Parris, and the events that led up to the infamous Salem witch trials. This origin story examines how these teenage girls became accusers and caused 20 people to be put to death for witching. An interactive forum that explores the accusers and their community is built into the play, encouraging reflection and is ideal for complimenting classroom work. This play is a must for deeper engagement alongside any study of the Salem witch trials. Afflicted: Daughters of Salem, supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, explores not only the history and causes of the trials but also how girls raised in oppression have negotiated alliances and power throughout history just as they do today. Commissioned and premiered by the Coterie Theatre.
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Details
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Status
In stock
- Type of Show Full-length Play
- Product Code AK9000
- Cast Size 6
- Min. Royalty Rate $110/perf
- Cost $11.95
- Approx. Run Time 75 min
Categories
- Target Audience Young Audiences | Middle School | High School | College and Adult | Family (all ages)
- Performing Group High School | College Theatre | Community Theatre | Professional Theatre | TYA | Touring Group
- Genre Drama
- ISBN(13) 9781583429846
Customer Reviews
- "Excellent script for young actresses to dive into character and ensemble work."
- Review by Megan Myers, Brownsburg HS, Brownsburg, Ind.
Media Reviews
"Dramatically riveting… This show really packs a punch." -The Kansas City Star"Intriguing… completely compelling as a snapshot of how social pressures and fear can cause unconscionable actions." -KCMetropolis.org
"A deep look into the psychology of the girls who so deeply affected the innocent inhabitants of Salem… impressive … The closing of the show is inspired." -www.broadwayworld.com
"Provides a fictionalized look inside the peer politics and teen rebellions within the group of young girls and the psychology of leaders and followers." -Kansas City Performing Arts Examiner