Marietta High School Choir Program will present the musical titled Anastasia on March 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in the Marietta High School auditorium. Anastasia follows a young woman, named Anya, who has amnesia and can’t remember who she is. Dimitri and Vlad, two Russian conmen, convince Anya that she may be Anastasia, the missing daughter rumored to have survived the attack on the Romanov family during the Russian Revolution. The three protagonists leave for Paris where the Dowager Empress, Anastasia’s grandmother, waits for her granddaughter’s arrival, which she fears may never come. When Anya’s memories return, she believes she may be the missing daughter.
Students and directors have been working with dedication on the musical’s costumes, blocking, choreography, and set design. Scott Rieder, Tim Kelsey, John Sarver, and Darci Miller are the four directors for Anastasia and have been working on this show since last spring. Rieder expressed his excitement for the show and what he wanted people to see in this musical.
“Our leads are incredible and they are doing a phenomenal job of bringing these characters to life. The cast members are already giving moving performances with their solo songs. Our choreography, by Mr. Tim Kelsey, is also very fun and engaging.”
Anastasia offers a much needed message that hope and courage can help one discover who they are and who they are meant to be in a world where nothing seems simple. Rieder discussed his thought process behind choosing this musical. “The movie Anastasia is a classic, with memorable music. The songs “Journey to the Past” and “Once Upon a December” are unforgettable! The story is moving, and relatable, as our protagonist sets out on a journey to discover who she is. I think audiences will love this musical and this cast.”
Senior Alexis Cruz, who was cast as Anya, discussed her excitement about her leading role and why she thinks people need to hear Anya’s story. “Anya has a rebellious streak that is really fun to play. She also has a wide range of emotions that I get to show, and I think that her growth is really compelling. I think this show is a great mix of drama and comedy. Some parts are really entertaining and others are really emotional.”
Senior Mahlen Becker, who was cast as the Tsarina, relayed her feelings about performing in this year’s musical.“I am excited to perform the songs in this show because they are fun and people will love them. I am also excited for the people involved in the musical for the first time because they have worked hard and will do great!”
Opening night will be on March 1st at 7:00 p.m. with another showing the following night at the same time and the final showing will be on March 3rd at 2:00 p.m. Rieder explained why people should attend the performance and why this particular musical was a good choice for audience members. “This is a musical for the whole family. Something in this one for everyone to enjoy. You won’t want to miss it.”
Tickets will be available on the athletics page on the Marietta High School website and will also be available at the door on performance nights.