The Diary of Anne Frank was a well-executed production that offered insight into Jewish
The play began with an emotionally moving introduction by four Jewish girls who told of the trials and suffering they faced under Hitler’s reign. Even though the play had barely begun, some were almost drawn to tears due to their realistic performances. The audience was then introduced to the Frank and Van Daan family as they moved into a secret annex of Mr. Kraler’s, who was a family acquaintance, factory for protection from Nazi oppression. The hiding place was small and cramped which led to much bickering between the different family members. On top of these harsh conditions, those living there were unable to make much movement or noise throughout the day and had to ration the little food that was delivered periodically by Miep Gies, another friend of the family.
One night a burglar broke into the factory, which frightened all those in hiding. Otto Frank, father of the Frank family, left his hiding place to investigate the matter and when he did, he scared off the thief. He was relieved to discover it was not German soldiers but new their secrecy was in jeopardy now that someone knew they were hiding in the factory. Although they remained troubled, they continued on with their “normal” life.
From the time they moved in, Anne Frank had been keeping a diary of daily occurrences as she found much enjoyment in doing so. Day after day went by with the same routine until suddenly all that changed. Nazi soldiers broke into their secret hiding place after hearing the news from the burglar, took them away, and sent them off to the concentration camps. Otto Frank was the only member to survive the war, the camps, and the tragic events that took place, but Anne’s diary still remained and would be used to tell her story for years to come.
From the audience’s point of the view the Western Christian High School Theater put on a production that was very professional and entertaining. Although the majority of the cast had not performed in a WCHS play before and some did not even have acting experience, it was not at all evident. Having an international student in the play was also a nice touch as many of WCHS’s productions go without international participation or representation. Overall the Diary of Anne Frank was an excellent production.
