Review of The Diary of Anne Frank

"Inspired performances for inspiring tale" by Jafar Iqbal for remotegoat on 18/07/09

It's difficult not to feel a sense of sadness whenever the Holocaust is mentioned; and the story of Anne Frank, in particular, is truly heartbreaking. The historical significance of the young girl's diary, as well as the combined power and innocence of her words, will remain infamous. All of these emotions played in the back of the audience's minds as they settled down for the Woodhouse Players' production of "The Diary of Anne Frank". Bringing the events of the diary to life, the production was a lavishly staged, well-acted affair. Director Anna Heinink did not attempt to offer a new slant or perspective on the play; wisely, she presented it as it should be - a tale of hope, survival and ultimate tragedy. Characters were well defined, and the extensive use of sound and lighting was a testament to her ambitious vision.

Of the performances, the two standouts were definitely the two who, arguably, matter most in the story. Sarah Fox, as Anne, was sensational. Stepping into the shoes of such an iconic figure is no mean feat and, at a young age herself, she played the role with maturity and vigour. Following close behind her was Gary Adams, as father Otto Frank, in another fantastic performance. Adams carried a great stage presence, whether as the bitter old man looking back on Anne's life or the ever-optimist as they struggled in hiding. While it could be seen that some were less experienced than others, the rest of the cast pitched in with confident, inspired performances. This was amateur dramatics at it's most raw - a group of actors working together and helping each other through to the end.

Like with all productions, Heinink's play had its flaws. The elevated stage dampened proceedings slightly as the audience were not fully able to feel like they were present in the hideout, and moments of humour were understated or seemingly ignored. However, these are minor gripes as, again, the true purpose of the story was to present the play as the tragedy that it is. Otto Frank's emotional final scene emphasises that, but it is Anne's closing voice that strikes hardest. This play should be remembered for two reasons - Anne Frank herself and a new star in Sarah Fox.

Event Venues & Times
finished	Welsh Church Hall | 879 Leytonstone High R, Leytonstone, E11 1HR

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