Overall, the performance was amazing, however, there were a few actors who stood out. Pete McAndrew who embodied Anne’s father Otto was very transparent, conveying the pain and desperation of a father after losing his wife and daughters. The beginning as well as the end were directed brilliantly by Gordon Russell and really spoke to the audience. Ellie North who played Mrs Van Daan was outstanding, creating such a realistic illustration of a mother, a wife and a woman and the way sometimes those social roles contradict one another.
The dialogue was conducive to understanding her inner psyche.
Abigail Martin who portrayed Anne was a very good choice, really showcasing her youth and the change of the way she thinks as she gets older. Because she was narrating some bits the dialogue was conducive to understanding her inner psyche.
On the flip side, Honor who played Margot didn’t have much dialogue going on for her, however, she was constantly on stage and at times I found her presence a bit awkward. Mrs Frank really appeared near the end of the play, finally exhibiting the frustration build up during the previous events.
The setting was simplistic but worked exceptionally well with the performance as a whole
The setting was simplistic but worked exceptionally well with the performance as a whole, with the costumes being representative of the characters and the costume changes being quite smart.
My final thoughts are that this beautifully written play is able to touch one’s heart and do Anne’s story justice, and it would deserve 3.5/5 stars!