By: Renea Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
renea@thevillagereporter.com
The Delta High School Musical Theater presented “Anastasia: The Musical” this past week with performances on Friday, April 4th, Saturday, April 5th, and Sunday, April 6th.
“Anastasia: The Musical” is set in 1927. Gleb Vaganov, a Bolshevik general, announces that Saint Petersburg is renamed Leningrad and promises a bright future amidst rumors that Anastasia survived. Con men, Dmitry and Vlad plan to groom a girl named Anya, who has amnesia, into pretending to be Anastasia to con money from the Dowager Empress.
As Anya learns to play Anastasia, Gleb orders her arrest but releases her, suspecting she might be the real Anastasia. Anya’s past begins to resurface, and she, Dmitry, and Vlad head to Paris to confirm her identity. Along the way, they face dangers, and Gleb grapples with his feelings for Anya. They finally reach France, hopeful of uncovering Anya’s true identity.
Anya, Vlad, and Dmitry arrive in Paris, where Anya feels connected to the city. Dowager Empress Marie Feodorovna, heartbroken from fake claims, loses hope of finding Anastasia. Gleb arrives; Lily reunites with Vlad, who convinces her to let Anya meet the Dowager at the ballet.
Anya dreams of the Romanovs’ execution, and Dmitry comforts her. At the ballet, both Anya and the Dowager recognize each other, but the Dowager denies it. Afterward, Lily takes Anya to the Dowager, leading Dmitry to realize his love for Anya.
The Dowager tests Anya, who proves her identity by singing a lullaby. They reunite, confirming Anya is Anastasia. Despite misgivings, Anya decides to pursue Dmitry. Gleb tries to kill her but cannot.
Anya and Dmitry leave Paris together as the Dowager announces Anastasia’s story ends, with rewards donated to charity.
The cast and crew delivered an exceptional performance that thoroughly captivated the audience. Congratulations to all cast and crew members for their outstanding work!
(PHOTOS BY RENEA KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
