The Diary of Anne Frank

The Diary of Anne Frank
By Francis Goodrich and Albert Hackett. WAAAPA Third Year Acting students. Directed by Peggy Shannon. The Roundhouse Theatre, WAAPA, Mt Lawley, WA. May 5-11, 2017

WAAAPA’s Third Year Acting students presented a very moving, beautifully told rendition of The Diary of Anne Frank, by Francis Goodrich and Albert Hackett, in a production that showcases not only beautifully developing acting skills, but the depth of talent of WAAPA Production and Design students. Under the guidance of visiting Canadian director Peggy Shannon, WAAPA produced a piece that moved much of the audience to tears.

Set and costume designer Ellise Stratton expertly creates the secret annex in which the Frank family, the Van Daans and Mr Dussell spent 25 months in hiding. The space, in which the ‘in hiding’ characters remain visible at almost all times, feels genuine, and the costumes are faithful to the era and to character. Bluey Hart’s lighting design helps to steer audience focus within the space and Nikolaas Wajon’s sound design is disarmingly realistic.

Skye Beker was a lovely choice in the title role, creating an Anne who is believably thirteen, and who matures credibly throughout the show. Her relationship with Peter, a good performance from Joshua Orpin who portrayed a similar maturation, was a beautiful diversion in the show.=

Roy Joseph was excellent at Otto Frank, in a mature and measured performance. Stephanie Somerville created a very nuanced Mrs Frank, whose complex relationship with her younger daughter was expertly drawn. Audrey Blyde was lovely as the likeable Margot Frank.

Jack Scott and Katherine Pearson were a believably fraught couple as Mr and Mrs Van Daan, both with depth of character and owning some difficult scenes. Jake Fryer-Hornsby brought layers to Mr Dussell.

Elliot Giarola was strong in his brief appearances as Mr Kraler, supporting the fugitives from the outside, as was “borrowed’ first year student Lucinda Howes, who brought dignity and poise to the supportive Miep.

I was fortunate enough to attend the Question and Answer session held after one performance. I highly recommend that drama students and fans the craft of acting avail themselves of this opportunity - a wonderful examination both of the play being performed and the creative process.

The Diary of Anne Frank was a hopeful, uplifting performance, beautifully presented by WAAPA. I look forward to their classmates’ performance of Present Laughter next month.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Jon Green.

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