The University Players production of The Crucible opened Thursday at Essex Hall Theatre. The show continues its run through November 30.

Arthur Miller’s hair-raising classic unmasks deadly truths about the nature of humanity and the terrifying ends to which a society, blended by suspicion and mass hysteria, will go. The Crucible was written in 1953 about the 1692 witch hunts but the story and its relevancy is “ever-green,” says director Gordon McCall.

“The play speaks boldly to our contemporary social dilemma in our era of uncontrolled social media where reputations—and lives—are often destroyed by vicious gossip and innuendo,” he says. “This play reminds us of the importance of maintaining vital principles such as integrity, honour and basic human decency.”

Wednesday through Saturday performances are at 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. On Sunday, November 23, a “Talk Back” discussion with the director and actors will follow the performance.

Tickets are available online at www.UniversityPlayers.com or by calling 519-253-3000, ext. 2808.