COEUR d'ALENE - "These are strange times."

So says Reverend John Hale, a character in Arthur Miller's Tony Award-winning play, "The Crucible," opening tonight on stage at Coeur d'Alene High School.

Sophomore student Nick Pratt plays the role of Reverend Hale.

Miller's story brings to life a dark chapter in history, a time when a community, besieged with paranoia and fear, turned upon itself.

Set in Salem, Mass., in 1692, the drama, written by Miller in the early 1950s, during the era of McCarthyism, depicts the social dynamics surrounding the witch trials.

"His words are timeless," said director and CHS theater teacher Jared Helm.

The story begins with the discovery of a group of teen girls dancing in the forest which gives rise to accusations of witchcraft being leveled at community members from all levels of the social strata.

The dialogue is filled with talk of humans flying, conjuring spirits and dancing with the devil.

The set design is simple and stark. Tall, barren trees stand dark against the sky outside the windows of the rooms in which each act takes place.

The costumes reflect the austere dress of 17th century society in New England.

"The craziest thing is that we did this in five weeks," Helm said.

For some members of the 21-part cast, the roles were a challenge.

CHS theater veteran Abby Anderson, 16, plays Abigail Williams, one of the teens alleging to be afflicted with visions of demons.

As the play unfolds, it becomes clear that Abigail has her own agenda.

"I love playing the character, but I hate the person that she is," Anderson said. "I don't know anyone like her."

Robby Jenkins, a senior, plays John Proctor, a man tormented by his own dark secrets and pride.

Jenkins, a self-described "nice guy," said getting into the "tough guy" role took some work, but once he got into character, he sailed through each act.

"I love working with Mr. Helm. He's a phenomenal director," Jenkins said.

Nick Pratt described his character, Reverend Hale, as "a pretty corrupt, but deeply moved minister."

The show opens Friday at 7 p.m. in the CHS auditorium, 5530 N. Fourth St., and runs at the same time on Saturday, and again each night from Feb. 10-12.

Tickets are $6 for adults and $5 for students and seniors 55 and older. Tickets can be purchased online at www.chstheater.org, by phone by calling 769-2999, or at the CHS box office 30 minutes before each show.