If The Crucible and Arsenic and Old Lace were playing at the two different theaters?

Question

on the same night, which one would you choose to go see? I myself love The Crucible, but how can I pass on Arsenic and Old Lace. It would be a tough descicion for me but I believe, though I love The Crucible, it is not everyday that Arsenic and Old Lace is produced.

Answer 1

I do love Arsenic, and it is to me a better show. But you are slightly wrong, it is everyday that Arsenic is produced. You can find it all the time. But not Crucible. I would say see the first, the second one will be back soon.
B

Answer 2

For those who enjoy dark comedy, it's hard to see how anything could be funnier than "Arsenic and Old Lace". With Cary Grant's talent for madcap comedy, with hilariously sinister performances by Raymond Massey and Peter Lorre, with two adorable old ladies who have a very dark secret, plus half-a-dozen other eccentric characters, all involved in a complicated and unpredictable plot, this is a comic masterpiece. Director Frank Capra keeps everything moving and adds his own touch, keeping some dark material entirely light-hearted. This is the kind of movie for which mere analysis cannot do justice to how well everything fits together. The characters, cast, and writing are all perfect, and the crazy story gives every character some great moments. There is plenty of witty dialogue, lots of funny slapstick and physical humor, and quite a few wild plot developments. None of it is meant to be plausible, but it is all hugely entertaining, and done with such skill that it is easy to suspend disbelief. If you happen not to have seen this before, stick with it for the first few minutes, until you arrive at the home of Cary Grant's two aunts, and then things will take off quickly. If you enjoy morbid humor, "Arsenic and Old Lace" is an absolute must-see.

Answer 3

Interesting dilemma. For me, it would all depend on the quality of the theatre companies involved.

"The Crucible" is a very STURDY play, and can be effective even when produced by somewhat lesser companies. Young and relatively inexperienced actors can pull it off, and it can be done "on the cheap."

"Arsenic and Old Lace," in my opinion, requires a great deal more subtlety. This is classic "Americana," and, like other plays of its ilk ("The Phildelphia Story," "Born Yesterday," "You Can't Take It With You," "The Man Who Came to Dinner," etc.), it takes a very skilled director and design team to properly capture the feel of the era.

If the companies were of relatively high quality, I'd opt for "Arsenic;" if not, I'd go with the Arthur Miller show.

Answer 4

Arsenic and Old Lace! Every time! I love Teddy!

Answer 5

Ah, the irony. Those are the two plays we put on my senior year of high school. I would absolutely pick Arsenic and Old Lace. That is my favorite play! It's so hilarious!!!!!

Answer 6

oh, Arsenic and Old Lace, without a doubt (sorry Mr. Miller). I saw Jean Stapleton and Polly Holiday in a Broadway presentation of Aresenic and it was amazing!

Answer 7

Arsenic and Old Lace without a doubt---A wonderful dark comedy out does dark tragedy hands down! (even if said dark tragedy is based on one of the worst events in US history)

Answer 8

If none better than elementary school children were offering A&OL, I pay double to NOT have to endure the Crucible. It is as tedious as watching paint dry, and as predictable.

One Wolfs opinion

Steven Wolf

Answer 9

I'd pick CRUCIBLE. It's a better written play, so can stand up to lower quality acting/direction/design than ARSENIC can. But ARSENIC is fun!

Answer 10

Well, do you want a fabulous drama or a classic comedy? Also, do you think either will be done by an especially good cast, director, etc., as opposed to the other one?