' The Diary of Anne Frank' is Coming to Woodland High

BEACON FALLS, CT - The Diary of Anne Frank is coming to Woodland High School playing October 27th through October 29th.

The show is a theatrical adaptation of the bestselling novel, The Diary of a Young Girl. As World War II wreaks havoc across Europe, eight people are forced to go into hiding. In this “Secret Annex,” happiness, sorrow, and love all prevail. Anne Frank is discovering herself and understanding others during this two year period of survival. Food is low, money is being drained, but somehow the families always find a small light within their situation.

“It is always important that the community learns what can happen when you marginalize a group of people,” said Tom Simonetti, Woodland’s director. “We need to understand and connect with significant parts of history, such as Anne’s story, to prevent it from recurring.”

The set is an important aspect of this show as the annex is a character within itself. Set designer Claire Cummings is working to make the typical proscenium into a traverse theater. The audience will be sitting on the stage with the performers in the offstage area known as the wings to create an immersive experience. Thus, seating is limited, so those hoping to see the show are advised to pre-order their ticket online.

“It is a challenge to collaborate creative ideas when it comes to historical representation. We want the audience to feel the emotions of the show,” said Claire Cummings, set designer. “Bringing the audience on the stage is a unique experience that Woodland has never seen before.”

Anne Frank will be portrayed by Hannah Mudry, a senior who has previously been involved in four Woodland productions.

“I can’t wait to see how the audience reacts to this performance,” said Mudry. “Anne Frank’s story is so important to tell. She wanted people to hear it. She wanted her diary to get published.”
The members of the Frank family are portrayed by Connor Doughney, Otto Frank; Hannah Semrow, Edith Frank; and Lily Rosenblum, Margot Frank.

The other members of the “Secret Annex” are Dylan Tyrell playing Hermann van Daan, Runiyah Albino playing Petronella van Daan, Evan Moore playing Peter van Daan, and EJ Nastu playing Alfred Dussel.

The ensemble features Zoe Kindt as Miep Gies, Tyler Polaski as Mr. Kraler, and Jeffery Guluzy, Korbyn Benham, and Reese Fernandes as the three men.

Reese Fernandes is also understudying for all male roles. Abigail Diamante is understudying for all female roles, except for Anne Frank. Standby for Anne Frank is Michaela Durrah.

The tech team is led by Julianna Fernandez, as Stage Manager. Set and property design is by Claire Cummings. Costumes are designed by Jamie Misuraca.

The Diary of Anne Frank will be presented on Friday, October 27th at 7 PM; Saturday, October 28th at 2 PM and 7 PM; and Sunday, October 29th at 7 PM in the Woodland High School auditorium: 135 Back Rimmon Rd, Beacon Falls, CT. Tickets can be purchased by calling 203-881-5551 or through presale by going to showtix4u.com and searching for Region 16.