Written by Laura Izzo
Bravo to the cast and crew of Pit and Balcony's production of "The Diary of Anne Frank." It is a powerful performance of a powerful masterpiece.
This classic play opened Jan. 26 and the entire stage came to life as the cast embodied the persona of their characters and the dramatic lighting engaged the audience to follow the characters as they took ownership of the stage.
During the concluding "talk back" session, Director Danielle Katsouls shared her vision to "bring these people to life." Cast members took part in a series exercises designed to enhance character development. Their hard work was evident, from stage set up, costumes design, facial expressions, tone and affliction of their words, to the use of stage.
Katsoulos wanted to take "the audience on a journey" and that she did! By the second act, the viewer is lost in the moment with the characters, hoping in vain there was a way to rewrite history. Gasps could be heard throughout the theater when the unavoidable ending arrived.
A somber reality that time cannot change the fate of these eight individuals. This was an unforgettable performance that ended with a standing ovation.
This well thought out production sought to engage the audience in reflecting on history. Materials about the Holocaust are in the lobby, including information about fate of Holocaust survivors.
In conclusion, Anne Frank's words drape the stage, inspiring optimism in the face of adversity. "I don't think of all the misery, but of all the beauty that still remains."
Although Anne Frank was never able to experience liberation, her experience will not be forgotten. "I want to go on living even after my death."
"The Diary of Anne Frank" runs Jan. 26-28 and Feb. 2-4. Friday & Saturday 7:30pm, Sundays 3pm Tickets: $18.
