Camillus Middle School is proud to present Anastasia the Musical. Inspired by the beloved 1997 animated film this musical transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920’s as a brave young woman, Anya (Lila Hennessy), sets out to discover the mystery of her past.
The show opens in St. Petersburg in 1907 where the Tzar’s mother, Maria Feodorovna (Liliana Ippoliti), offers a gift to her young grand-daughter Grand Duchess Anastasia (Laura Anastasio) before departing on a trip to Paris. The story fast-forwards in time to 1917 for the exquisite prologue ballet, where we meet Tzar Nicholas (Elizabeth Buckley), Tzarina Alexandra (Sarai Card), and the rest of the royal family. The Russian Revolution interrupts the joyful celebration and teenage Ansastasia (Emily Page) is separated from her doomed family.
St. Petersburg in 1927 is a vastly different place, as the country has now been governed by the communist authorities under the rule of Vladimir Lenin. We meet Dmitry (Micah Schuessler), a young conman, and Vlad Popov (John Panek), an older ex-fake-aristocrat, two con-artists who have an idea to “find” and Anastasia and bring her to Paris to receive the Dowager Empress’ reward. Anya (grown up Anastasia with amnesia) connects with Dmitry and Vlad, and they realize maybe she could actually be the missing Princess Anastasia.
Our trio is pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer, Gleb Vaganov (Ryan Popp) determined to silence her if she’s an imposter or bury her if she really is the Grand Duchess. Anya enlists the aid of the dashing conman, Dmitry and loveable ex-fake-aristocrat, Vlad. Together along with the wonderful ensemble they embark on an epic adventure to help her find hope, love and family!
With music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and book by Terrance McNally, Anastasia the Musical is an instant classic. The CMS Musical Production Team includes: Don Schuessler (Director/Musical Director/Producer), Heather Molina (Choreographer/Assistant to the Director), Cindy Kissane (Costumer/Properties), Jeff Bowe (Set Design/Builder/Painter), Jenny Gettino (Production Assistant), and Selma Salmons (Seamstress).
Performances will be Thursday, November 4 and Friday, November 5 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, November 6 at 2:00 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the show and tickets are $8 general admission.
In accordance with the West Genesee CSD Board of Education, masks will be required inside at all times.