RISING theatrical talent from the Malvern Theatres Young Company will once again be showcasing their acting skills later this month with several performances that are being offered for free.

Established in 2012 the MTYC have gone for a much darker play for this summer’s offering when they perform Arthur Miller’s 1950s masterpiece, The Crucible, which plots the brutal self-destruction of a fragile Puritan community obsessed by fear.

It’s 1692 and a dark magic possesses Salem.

A children’s game has terrifying consequences as accusations of witchcraft break out. The God-fearing citizens are on their guard and no one is beyond suspicion. As investigations reach their height, a young woman accuses Elizabeth, the blameless wife of John Proctor.

False allegations are rife as the devout community is enveloped by a hysteria from which it can never return.

Malvern Theatres Young Company, under the direction of Nic Lloyd will bring audiences startlingly close to the action of one of the most powerful plays of the twentieth century from Wednesday, August 16, through to Saturday, August 19. Performances will be at 7pm each evening and there will also be a matinee on the Saturday at 2pm.

The Crucible echoes the prejudices and narrow-mindedness of the 1950s McCarthy witch-hunts and bears the same relevance to the problems facing the world today.

The MTYC aims to create a unique opportunity for talented performers to experience life in a theatre.

Mr Lloyd said: “Working with a fully professional team, including directors, choreographers, costume, set and lighting designers, it allows young people aged eight to 25 years the chance to be involved in a professionally staged theatre production; empowering them to take their first steps into this exciting career.”

He added: “The creation of this company has been one of our proudest achievements at Malvern Theatres and we are delighted that many past participants are now working or studying within the industry.”

And he added: “This year, we’re delighted to be able to offer tickets without making a charge for admission. Instead, there will be a collection after each performance in support of future Malvern Theatres’ projects.”

Presenting The Crucible with free admission enables everyone to experience both Arthur Miller’s masterpiece and also the high quality work of this talented young company.

Booking is essential so book your free tickets on-line at malvern-theatres.co.uk or via the Box Office 01684 892277.