Goodrich — On the stage of Goodrich new auditorium, where Holocaust survivor Gerda Weissmann Klein recently spoke, Goodrich students will soon present “The Diary of Anne Frank.”
The two-act play by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett is the portrayal of Anne Frank’s diary, written by the 15-year-old during World War II when Anne, her family, and four other Jews were forced to hide from the Nazis in an Amsterdam spice warehouse before being found and executed. Anne’s diary was discovered after the war by her father Otto Frank, the sole survivor of the eight.
Meeting Klein shortly before the production was “nearly a life-altering experience,” said new theatre department director Steve Mitchell. “For someone who went through somewhat of a similar (Holocaust) experience, she was so vibrant and full of life…it’s a testament to the human spirit.”
“I feel really honored to play the role,” said Sara Davis, whose dark hair, sprite features and wide eyes make her the very picture of the young Dutch girl. “I never really knew how important this girl was. By getting the part it touched me more. It’s heartbreaking to know what she went through.”
Bringing this segment of the Holocaust to life is important, says Lacie Tait, who plays Anne’s older sister Margot. Otherwise, says Lacie, “most people would be forgetting the past and what people went through.”
Along with Sara and Lacie, the cast includes Greg Kovas as Mr. Frank, Kelly Fox as Mrs. Frank, Matt Tharrett as Peter VanDaan, Vanessa Watters as Mrs. VanDaan, Joel Cahill as Mr. VanDaan, Taylor Moore as Miep Gies, Mark Mayberry as Mr. Krahler, and Gabe Yancho as Mr. Dussel.
Anne’s irrepressible humanity, revealed in diary entries such as “Nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world” is why her diary has been beloved by millions, says Publisher’s Weekly. The play is a must-see, says Greg Kovas, who plays Anne’s father Otto.
“It’s probably one of the most touching plays because it’s a very true story,” said Kovas. “It’s a way of learning from the world’s past mistakes.”
The production is the first to be held in the Raymond C. Green Center for Performing Arts in Goodrich High School. Although Mitchell and the cast are experiencing pre-show jitters, they have great expectations for the play, and hope community members will show their support.
“I have no doubt that it’s going to come together,” said Mitchell.
Tickets are now on sale at $5 each.
Performances: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 20, 21, and 22; and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 23. Details: (810) 591-2220.