John Proctor is the Villain - Review!

Last night I was fortunate enough to attend a performance of the sold out play “John Proctor is the Villain” and WOW! It is definitely sold out for a reason. As I was making my notes for this show I filled and filled my notebook with 5 pages worth of positive feedback, and not a single negative comment, and the show is only one act! I am going to attempt to fit as much as I can into this review.

Firstly, I loved the use of the set. The story remains in the same classroom throughout, but does not for one minute falter nor get boring. The transitions between scenes were flawless and helped highlight each characters emotions so flawlessly.

The jokes in this show were HILARIOUS. Its so lovely to be able to see a show with jokes that my age demographic can actually relate to. For example, there were swiftie jokes, harry styles jokes, lizzo jokes. As a pop girlie, this made it so so good. The joke about John Mayer had me CRYING. The show truly had me wishing I was an english lit gal (unfortunately im more of a stem person) because the analysis’ and themes spoken about were so interesting!!

A particular standout to me was Holly Howden Gilchrist who played Beth Powell. Her portrayal of the character was so good and such a relatable character for me. I truly connected with the character through Holly’s incredible performance. As I wrote in my notes, “I resonate with Beth” a joke about Beth and Harry Styles was made, I have never felt more seen in my life and I don’t think I’ve ever cackled as hard as I did in that moment.

This show definitely covers some very deep topics, but not always in the most obvious ways, which I think was done beautifully! There were so many indirect points and the messages are powerfully spread to the audience, even if its not the obvious ones that you take away with you. It was honestly a comforting show to watch, it didn’t feel difficult nor exhausting to keep up with, the storyline was perfection! In addition to this, the acting was sensational. Each character truly told their stories with their faces and emotions before the story itself was said out loud, that was a beautiful thing to see and added so much value to the performance. My jaw was on the floor at this show, I don’t want to spoil anything but such eye opening topics were explored. I have literally written “JAW DROP” in my notes and I don’t think anything else could explain it better.

I do think however that you should go in to this show with some knowledge of what happens in the crucible. I had studied the play when I was in year 9 so I was able to understand every reference and connect more deeply to the story. However, they explained very well the overall themes of it for those who may not have read the play. I just think it will truly make your experience better as it was exciting to be able to pick up on things mentioned and link to the overall message of the play.

It was gripping, powerful and beautiful. My eyes genuinely welled up with tears at the powerful moments such as the dancing scene at the end, how a scene can be funny, as well as make you want to cry is so incredible. I genuinely have no words that can describe the insane beauty of this show.

This is the BEST play of 2026 and I am praying it will get a west end transfer because it is so moving. Everyone needs to see this.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

{Gifted Invite}