Before his leading role in The Crucible, Declan Kelley ’25 had participated in only one other Deerfield production, playing a minor role in the 2022 Winter Theater production, Fools. His positive experience with Deerfield’s theater program during the 2022 production, as well as his appreciation of last year’s plays, led to his decision to return to acting this fall. “I kinda thought I don’t wanna be in the audience another time, like these [productions] look so much fun and I just want to do this again so that’s why I decided to come back to it,” Kelley said.
Kelley acted as John Proctor in Deerfield’s Fall Theater production of The Crucible, performed from October 29 through November 2, 2024. His willingness to improve and treatment of others inspires and sets an example for younger members of the program. He is an “older brother to the younger kids,” said Ella Dorsch ’25, who played Elizabeth Proctor, John Proctor’s wife in the play. “Seeing him treat his directors and castmates with such respect and admiration is great for the younger kids to see.” Dorsch remarked, “He’s always asking questions to absorb as much knowledge as possible, which is very inspiring.”
Although Kelley has previously shown interest in theater, his most recent role as John Proctor, a farmer grappling with a moral dilemma during the 1690 Salem witch trials, has marked a significant breakthrough. Plum Schiff ’27 expressed how Kelley’s compassionate nature contributes to his portrayal of Proctor. She said, “His character has done things that people would deem as unforgivable but he finds a way for you to empathize with his character and feel horrible for him.”
In discussing his role, Kelley noted how he felt a responsibility to accurately portray John Proctor’s emotional and moral dissonance: “He has a very strong moral compass, and throughout the play, he struggles with the consequences of his past mistakes,” he said. “His emotions come out because he’s trapped in this situation where he has to make a big decision.” This vast emotional range makes any portrayal of the character demanding. Kelley said, “That’s the biggest challenge I’ve faced: figuring out how to convert [my emotions].”
During the play’s critical final act, Kelley has to embody John Proctor’s unwavering pride in his name and family. Dorsch described the scene as “a moment when he cries and breaks down and it’s really moving and inspirational to see someone be that vulnerable on stage.” She illuminated how his bravery contributes to both enhancing his performance as well as encouraging and setting an example for other members of the theater community.
Although Kelley’s role deviates from his real life personality, he overcomes the challenge in order to deepen his portrayal. Schiff recalled how “his character and my character have a lot of physical violence in the show,” she said, “and he couldn’t for a little bit, it took awhile for him to bring himself to be able to do the physical violence.” She believes that this hesistance reflects on his personal character, saying, “I think that’s one thing that emphasizes how nice he is. He never wanted to do anything violent but only did so for his character”.
Despite the authentic portrayal of his flawed character, Kelley has earned admiration from his peers and directors for his ability to separate himself from his character outside of the play. Assistant Director and English Teacher Vincent Rougeau said, “It’s really a massive separation between Declan and the character who he has created which is great. He’s really willing to give a lot of himself to his part as well tapping into a lot of emotions.”
Director of Theater Catriona Hynds emphasized Kelley’s growth as an actor since his role in 2022 and attributes it to his personal development. “Along with his maturation,” she said, “he’s developed confidence.” Mrs. Hynds applauded his intrepidity in rehearsal, saying, “He’s been very responsive to direction, willing to try things, be brave, and make bold choices.”
Kelley said, “To fully put yourself into a role, you have to let go of anything holding you back. The community here is really special; everyones always rooting for each other.” Reflecting on the supportive community in the Deerfield Theater program, Kelley said, “Everyone’s ready for you to push further.”