- November 26, 2024
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The Matanzas High School drama department will present “The Diary of Anne Frank” 7 p.m. Dec. 6 through Dec. 8, at the Pirate Theater, 3535 Old Kings Road N. Tickets for the show cost $5.
The show, which was suggested by a student, is one of the first Matanzas drama productions that the general public would recognize by title.
“Most of our MHS productions in the past few years have been slightly obscure,” said Director Dave Pandich. “A major determiner was also FPC's production of ‘The Crucible,’ given the fact that the two plays share a theme of persecution. Kelly Nelson (director at FPC) and I are constantly trying to find new ways to collaborate.”
Another difference with this production is that most students involved at veteran actors at the school. Historically most students involved in plays past were in their first or second play, whereas with “The Diary of Anne Frank,” most of the cast is not only in advanced acting class, but they also have a few productions under their belts.
“Altogether, the baseline expectations for performance quality are significantly higher than in the past,” Pandich said.
But more than the acting quality, one of the most important things for the students to take from performing this piece Pandich said, has to do with getting a closer understanding of the fact that these events actually took place.
“For example, one line in the play describes 3000 tons of bombs dropped every week” Pandich said. “After a few rehearsals, the student reading that line asked if it was a misprint as it seemed like a huge number. When I said that this was accurate, the students were shocked. These eureka moments happen all the time at rehearsals and they are experiences that will forever influence the way these kids view this historical period.”
Cast and Crew:
Naomi Muniz as Anne Frank
Kianna Hunley as Margot Frank
Caitlin Peterson as Mrs. Edith Frank
Ryan Kirk as Mr. Otto Frank
Jonathan Guillot as Peter VanDaan
Ashleigh Moore as Mrs. Petronella VanDaan
Hunter Sanders as Mr. Hermann VanDaan
Crayton McBride as Mr. Albert Düssell
Christi Hancock as Miep
Donald Haller as Mr. Kraler
Josh Nunes, Logan Hagan, Jordan Costa and Mike Palumbo as Workers/Nazis
David Pandich Artistic Director
Eric Kassebaum Technical Director
Bruce Scott Technical Manager
Mandi Pandich Assistant Director
Taylor Troino Stage Manager
Isabel Hess Costume Designer
Margaux Williamson Publicity Design
