The Diary of Anne Frank

Currently playing at Midland Center for the Arts Little Theater from February 21st to March 2nd, The Diary of Anne Frank, adapted by Wendy Kesselman, offers a harrowing and deeply moving experience that lingers long after the final curtain falls. Directed by Kaeleigh Casavant, this production brings to life the story of eight Jewish individuals in hiding during World War II, facing the relentless horrors of Nazi occupation.

The play is based on Anne Frank’s powerful diary, which chronicles her teenage years spent in hiding with her family and others, fearing for their lives while Anne is navigating the struggles of being a teenager. The contrast between Anne’s youthful dreams and the tragic reality of her situation is heartbreakingly clear, and the performances from the cast allow this emotional conflict to come alive on stage. One quote that portrayed her outlook was  “It’s really a wonder that I haven’t dropped all my ideals, because they seem so absurd and impossible to carry out. Yet I keep them, because in spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at heart.”

The cast, each portraying the diverse personalities within the group of eight, her mother, father, sister, another family of three, and a dentist, deliver stellar performances that capture both the moments of tension and fleeting happiness amidst their daily fears. Moments of laughter and tenderness to the inevitable bickering and betrayal that naturally arise under such intense pressure. Anne Frank, portrayed with vulnerability and fierce longing by Rebekah Poupard is especially poignant as she writes in her diary, yearning for a future that tragically never comes.

The production’s staging is intimate yet effective, immersing the audience in the confined space of the annex where the characters live in hiding. The personal touch was the handwriting of Anne’s diary scrolled along the wall and steps. The subtle lighting choices along with the use of the radio announcements enhance the emotional atmosphere, as the weight of the war and anxiety hangs over the characters. The stark chilling songs sang in between a few scenes by the nazis are unsettling and alarming, allowing you to actually feel the fear they are living in in your bones.

What stands out most is the emotional impact. The audience cannot help but feel the devastating weight of their fate, and for many, tears flowed freely throughout the performance. The play reminds us not only of the horrific losses during the Holocaust but also the innocent hopes and dreams of young people who were denied a future.

It is hard not to walk away from this production feeling a deep sense of anger and sorrow for the atrocities committed, but also a renewed sense of the importance of preserving the memory of those who suffered.The Diary of Anne Frank is more than just a historical story; it is a timeless reminder of the dangers of hate, prejudice, and fascism.

In short, this production is a heart-wrenching yet necessary experience. It shows the importance of sticking up for fellow humans and being on the right side of history, always condemning nazi behavior and symbolism. Be prepared to leave the theater with a heavy heart and a strong sense of responsibility to fight to never let happen again.