‘Diary of Anne Frank’ on stage at The Chance Theater

Exhibit from Anne Frank Center in New York salutes the show’s 50 th anniversary.

By DIANE REED ANAHEIM HILLS NEWS    

 "July 6, 1942: A few days ago, father began to talk about going into hiding. He said it would be very hard for us to live cut off from the world."

    That entry in the private journal of 12-year-old Anne Frank, sets the stage for the local performance of a Pulitzer Prize-winning show that is being celebrated for its 50 years on the stage.

    The Chance Theater in Anaheim Hills is commemorating The Diary of Anne Frank anniversary by presenting the 1997 adaptation of the show by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett.

    It was adapted by Wendy Kesselman.

    The new version of this time-honored play was honored with two Tony Awards - including Best Revival of a Play.

    Director Josh Costello says the adaptation is, "Shorter, more specific and more engaging."

    "We have a wonderful actress, Kristin Norris, who plays Anne," Costello added. "She’s a little older but looks younger and that really works for us."

    A unique set design that makes the multi-level stages seem to float in air, is aimed at bringing a fresh new look to the show, as well.

    Costello said the set is reminiscent of, "an Escher painting."

    The staging helps to update the timeless play about a young Jewish girl and her family who must spend a year and a half in hiding from the Nazis during World War II.

    The curtain goes up on a preview performance tonight at 8 p.m. A champagne opening gala will be held on March 11. Tickets to the gala are $25 each. General admission is $20 for other performances. Group rates and student and senior discounts are available.

    "Diary" runs through April 17 with performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.

    As part of the anniversary, which also marks Anne Frank’s 75 birthday, the local theater is offering a 17-panel exhibit from the Anne Frank Center in New York. It will be on display in the theater lobby, at 5552 E. La Palma Ave. in Anaheim Hills.

    The cast includes: Richard Comeau and Michael Irish, Jeff Hellebrand, Annie Mezzacappa, Karen Webster, Bob Campbell, Melanie Gable, Don Walters and Elise St. Clair.

    The original play debuted on Broadway Oct. 5, 1955.

    "Anne’s writing helps people see the humanity behind the incomprehensible statistics of the holocaust," Costello said.

For reservation information call
    (714) 777-3033 or go to
    www.chancetheater.com