This weekend is another busy holiday weekend, and a lot of it centers around downtown Alexandria once again thanks to the Andria Theatre’s production of Anastasia the Musical. Many are familiar with the book by Terrance McNally, but the music (by Stephen Flaherty) and lyrics (by Lynn Ahrens) are the stars of the show. It is haunting, passionate, endearing and sometimes fun. The tragic story of the Romanov family in early 20th century Russia is the base of the story, but the music drives it beautifully along. The Andria Theatre continues to draw in actors to the Andria Stage who have not been on stage in a long time, or are appearing here for the first time. There are always a few favorites who are in the cast as well. The centerpiece of the this show is Emily Elliot. Having been in only one other show at the Andria (Bugsy Malone), she portrays Anya and Anastasia and delivers an amazing musical performance. In the role of Dmitry is Paul Ragan. His characterization and vocal talent turn his shady character into a very welcome part of the cast. Other bright spots amid a very talented cast include first time Andria Theatre actress Lindsey Guanella. In her role as Lily she is delightful, fun and also an amazing singer. 5th grader Reagan Johnson plays the role of young Anastasia as well as Alexei. She became the young princess on stage and helped get the show started off right.
There are a lot of favorite songs, like the theme song from the show “Once Upon a December.” Choosing a favorite is like picking a favorite child, not easy (we hope), but it’s easy to add a few of the others that caught my ears. “In a Crowd of Thousands”, “The Neva Flows” and “Stay I Pray You” are just a few of the many.
I encourage you to get a ticket as soon as possible. The show starts Thursday, December 5th, with evening shows Dec. 5th, 6th, 7th, 12th, 13th, and 14th at 7:00pm. Matinees are both Sunday Dec. 8th and 15th at 2:00pm.
For tickets, click on this link, or contact the box office during business hours
- CAST – Students:
- Reagan Johnson as Young Anastasia/Alexei
- Abby Faber as Teenage Anastasia Romanov/Ensemble
- Amelia Meier as Tatiana Romanov/Ensemble
- Dylan Marshall as Various roles/Ensemble
- Elisa Mae Runge as Various roles/Ensemble
- Kennedi Hay as Maria Romanov/Ensemble
- Kimiko Jennings as Various roles/Ensemble
- Jonah Monette as Various roles/Ensemble
- Jonas Larson as Various roles/Ensemble
- Luke Hodges as Various roles/Ensemble
- CAST – Adults
- Ruth Blom as Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna Romanov
- Paul Ragan as Dmitry Sudayev
- Justin Roob as Gleb Vaganov
- David Christman as Vlad Popov
- Emily Elliott as Anya/Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna Romanov
- Lindsey Guanella as Countess Lily Malevsky-Malevitch
- Kip Sundlee as Count Ipolitov/Tzar
- Abby Johnson as Tzarina/Ensemble
- Myah Hartman as Olga Romanov/Ensemble
- Brian Fleming as Various roles/Ensemble
- Olivia Maday as Various roles/Ensemble
- Cassie Zimmer as Various roles/Ensemble
- Brianna Varnum as Various roles/Ensemble/Understudy Anya
- Dina Shea as Various roles/Ensemble
- Erin Takle as Various roles/Ensemble/understudy Countess Lily
- Olivia Reilly as Various roles/Ensemble
CREW –
- Director – Donna Magnuson
Assistant Director/Stage Manager – Monica Peterson
Stage Manager/Props Master – Hilary Ninman
Vocal Director – Ruth Blom
Choreography – Katherine Owens
Costume Design – Alyssa Petefish
Set Design – Greg Bohl
Lighting Tech – Sidney Imsande
Sound Tech – Brandon Johnson
Projections/Sound Cues – Holly Wallerich
Fight Choreography – Jake Stone
