The Salem witch trials were some of the darkest moments in American history, but for the cast of the Columbia High School fall play, the events provide comedy fodder. The school will present "Witches!? In Salem?!" at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 22 and 23, with an additional performance at 2 p.m. on Saturday.

Much of what modern audiences know about the Salem witch trials comes from "The Crucible," a social commentary written by Arthur Miller in 1953.

"This is a parody of 'The Crucible,'" said senior Michael Unkow, who serves as the show's stage manager and plays three parts, including Farmer John No. 1. "There are multiple references to that play in this show. They take what was already an absurd point in history, and they take it up to 11."

The show was written by Matt Cox, who is the author of other parody plays, including "Puffs," which satirizes a popular franchise about a wizardry school.

"This is a very funny show," said senior Eva Fanous, who is the lighting designer. "They will poke fun at things that us humans didn't pay attention to or allowed to happen right in front of us. It's very sarcastic."

Like "The Crucible," "Witches!? In Salem?!" is set in 1692 and follows the story of several local children who have fallen under a mysterious spell. Although it's a comedy, the play prompts audiences to examine the circumstances and societal pressures of the Salem witch trials, as well as the people responsible for them.

"Expect a lot of laughs when you see this show," said senior Madison Evans, who is on the sound crew. "Even listening to them rehearse today, I was dying the whole time."

In fact, staying in character has been a challenge for the cast members, who often crack up at the show's absurdity.

That's part of what makes the show so fun, said Alexymahr Whitley, a senior who portrays the Rev. Parris.

"It's been fun letting loose and getting into our characters, because this show is off the chain," he said. "It's unhinged."

Michael noted that rapid-fire dialogue keeps the play moving at a quick pace, and he said quick costume changes have provided a unique challenge since several cast members play multiple parts.

"There are some quick changes that are very intense, like just a few seconds to get off stage, change and come back on as a different character," he said.

Along with comedy on stage, the show offers tech crews the opportunity to experiment with lights and sound, Eva said.

"We are working with a lot of special effects, and there are a lot of cool sound effects and lighting design, which isn't typical for a play like this," she shared. "We have a new lighting system that we got in April, and this is our first show using it."

The cast and crew will take the show on the road to the state International Thespian Society conference in early January at West Chester University.

"We are the first show performing on opening night," Michael said. "We'll be performing for just over 1,000 other theater kids from around the state."

As they get ready to perform for local audiences, the cast and crew members are excited to present an entertaining production.

"Just be ready to have fun," Alexymahr advised audience members. "This is a rollercoaster of a show."

"Witches!? In Salem?!" will be performed at Columbia High School, 901 Ironville Pike, Columbia. Tickets will be sold at the door. There are separate prices for adults, students and senior citizens.