A search for family and identity takes the stage in “Anastasia”.
Based on the history of Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov whose life and family were taken away by Bolshevik forces during the Russian Revolution in 1918.
The musical reimagines what would happen if Anastasia survived and set out to search for her family.
Senior Drew Hamil, who plays Demetri, gives insight into how this year’s musical is special.
“This is the 50th anniversary of musicals at OC,” Hamil said.
He explains how the lead role consists of more than playing the main part.
“I think in general being a lead in a musical is just as much a leadership thing as it is a performance thing,” Hamil said. “You’re on stage a lot but that doesn’t matter if you don’t treat everyone in the show as important as they are.”
Hamil explains how playing the lead part gives him an opportunity to influence others.
“I think that, especially as we follow Christ at OC, it’s your opportunity to really reach people and be a good influence on others because you’re put in that position of responsibility,” Hamil said.
Hamil describes the show as more than a reenactment of a Disney movie.
“It’s very much more mature than the other shows, like I loved being a part of ‘Beauty and the Beast’,” Hamil said. “‘Beauty and the Beast’ is not as dark as ‘Anastasia’ or as serious as the tone.”
Hamil describes how the musical’s tone will affect audience members.
“I think you feel the dread that the people felt whenever the Bolshevik Revolution happened,” Hamil said.
Hamil hopes audiences can connect with Anya’s hero journey throughout the musical.
“I think that people can relate to Anya’s hero’s journey and passion of trying to find out who you’re supposed to be,” Hamil said. “I want people to feel a source of inspiration in their own lives to really go after what they feel called to do.”
Hamil shares what he admires most about the lead role Demetri.
“I’ve always looked up to the role of Demetri,” Hamil said. “He has a lot of pride for his home and I feel like I can relate to that.”
Sophomore Abbey Loney, who plays Anya, shares her favorite part of the show.
“Every time I’ve been in a musical I always love the dancing,” Loney said. “The lead doesn’t always get to do a lot of dancing, but there are a couple numbers that I get to be in which I’m excited for.”
Loney explains how this year’s show is going to be unlike any other.
“I’ve heard that we are going to be hiring real ballet dancers to perform in a scene during the show,” Loney said.
Loney looks forward to seeing how the new stage will bring new opportunities for the musical.
“We haven’t been on the stage but it will be interesting to see what kind of changes that will bring,” Loney said.
Loney shares how she felt when she was announced as the lead part.
“I was so excited,” Loney said. “I’ve always loved this show and this has been a dream role for a while.”
Loney explains why the part is special to her.
“I love the way she interacts with people and the world, despite the situation she is in,” Loney said. “She’s looking for her family, and that’s kind of the plot of the show, but she never really gives up on it.”
“Anastasia” will be performed at 7:40 p.m. Nov. 5-7 in Baugh Auditorium. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, Sept. 23.
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