Camillus Middle School is proud to present Anastasia the Musical. Inspired by the beloved 1997 animated film this musical transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920’s as a brave young woman, Anya (Lila Hennesy), sets out to discover the mystery of her past.
The show opens in St. Petersburg in 1907 where the Tzar’s mother, Maria Feodorovna (Liliana Ippoliti), offers a gift to her young grand-daughter Grand Duchess Anastasia (Laura Anastasio) before departing on a trip to Paris. The story fast-forwards in time to 1917 for the exquisite prologue ballet, where we meet Tzar Nicholas (Eli Buckley), Tzarina Alexandra (Sarai Card), and the rest of the royal family. The Russian Revolution interrupts the joyful celebration and teenage Ansastasia (Emily Page) is separated from her doomed family.
St. Petersburg in 1927 is a vastly different place, as the country has now been governed by the communist authorities under the rule of Vladimir Lenin. We meet Dmitry (Micah Schuessler), a young conman, and Vlad Popov (John Panek), an older ex-fake-aristocrat, two con-artists who have an idea to “find” and Anastasia and bring her to Paris to receive the Dowager Empress’ reward. Anya (grown up Anastasia with amnesia) connects with Dmitry and Vlad, and they realize maybe she could actually be the missing Princess Anastasia.
Our trio is pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer, Gleb Vaganov (Ryan Popp) determined to silence her if she’s an imposter or bury her if she really is the Grand Duchess. Anya enlists the aid of the dashing conman, Dmitry and loveable ex-fake-aristocrat, Vlad. Together along with the wonderful ensemble they embark on an epic adventure to help her find hope, love and family.
With music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and book by Terrance McNally, Anastasia the Musical is an instant classic. The CMS Musical Production Team includes: Don Schuessler (Director/Musical Director/Producer), Heather Molina (Choreographer/Assistant to the Director), Cindy Kissane (Costumer/Properties), Jeff Bowe (Set Design/Builder/Painter), Jenny Gettino (Production Assistant), and Selma Salmons (Seamstress).
Performances will be Thursday, Nov. 4 and Friday, Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 6 at 2 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the show and tickets are $8 general admission.
In accordance with the West Genesee CSD Board of Education, masks will be required inside at all times.
JEMS Musical Theatre to present Broadway JEMS
Get ready to hear your favorite showtunes, because JEMS Musical Theatre will soon be presenting Broadway JEMS. It is a review show featuring a variety of songs from hit shows such as Kiss Me Kate, Fiddler on the Roof, Annie, Wicked, Beauty and the Beast and The Sound of Music, to name a few.
Middle school students have been rehearsing since the end of September to present Broadway’s most memorable songs. The talented cast includes: Alaina Anderson, Abigayle Bates, Ellie Brim, Ceanna Compo, Mercaidiez Goldsmith, Logan Guerrette, Grace Lam, Teresa-Marie Leonardo, Sarah Love, Makaylee MacDonald, Madison Maurer, Abigail McWethy, Ava Orton, Owen Pardee, Mathieu Piper, Caitlin Pittsley, Aviella Pollock, Emma Pryce, Izzy Pudney, Jocelyn Sorber, Carissa Stone, Harper Taylor, Genevieve Walrath, Bridget Whiting, and Torri Yale-Manion.
The production is directed by Ryan Sparkes with musical direction by Kristen Kasky. Kathryn Alanso-Bergevin is the technical director and Drew Deapo is the production coordinator.
You can watch the show in the Ramsdell Auditorium at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 5 or at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 6. There is a suggested donation of $6.00 for each ticket, but additional fees are charged by the ticketing company. Tickets can be purchased here. Masks must be worn at all times while in the school building. Tickets are automatically socially distanced to keep our guests safe.
