THEATER | Historical tragedy

June 28, 29, 30, July 4, 5, 6 are the dates of Theatre in the Parks’ next production The Crucible at Kelso Hollow outdoor amphitheatre, New Salem. Directed by Carly Shank, this Arthur Miller classic drama features the 1692 Salem witch trails under the allegory of the 1950s McCarthy trials. John O’Connor of Springfield takes on the lead role of John Proctor. Folks are urged to attend free preshows at 7 p.m. A musician will be featured followed by director Carly Shank. Shank, who had directing The Crucible on her “bucket list,” has a wealth of info not only about the local production but the history on which the play is based. Performance evenings, the box office is open 5-8 p.m.