The highly-anticipated musical just announced its star-packed cast. But if you need more details, you’ve come to the right place!
The full cast for the North American Tour of the Anastasia musical has just been revealed. For fans of the musical Broadway adaptation, this means that show time is getting closer and closer. The tour is set to launch at Proctors in Schenectady in New York this October 9. And you’ll be happy to know that it’s hitting 30 cities in its first season. Do you want to know more about it? Read ahead for additional information about Anastasia.
Anastasia On Broadway: Synopsis
Anastasia is an adaptation of the fan favorite 1997 animated adventure film of the same name. The musical is set to transport you from the ominous but grand world of the Russian Empire to the 1920s glittering Paris. The story will revolve around a fierce young woman on a journey to discover the mystery of her past.
This is a classic tale of perseverance against all odds. Your favorite lovable characters will be returning on stage, including a charming ex-aristocrat and a mysterious yet deeply moral conman. And let’s not forget about the fearful and annoying protagonist in the shape of a ruthless Soviet officer. This epic tale of adventure, family, love, and bravery will surely tug at anyone’s heartstrings. All in all, Anastasia will be an enjoyable tale of good overcoming evil. Buckle in for dazzling and opulent costumes and amazing musical scores that will be orgasmic for your ears.
Background
The cast and crew of Anastasia are just as impressive as its set. Directing at the helm is Tony winner Darko Tresnjak. Meanwhile, Peggy Hickey is the master behind the play’s choreography. Anastasia’s original stage production premiered at Hartford, Connecticut on May 13, 2016. The musical has since been playing in a couple of venues. However, these have only been preview shows.
Anastasia comes in a 2-act format. With Act 1 being set in Russia and Act 2 in Paris. This smart move sets to highlight the stark difference between the strict and stoic atmosphere of the Russian Revolution against the carefree, creative, and liberated air of then ultra-modern Paris.
Tresnjak claims to have kept six original songs from the movie. But before you scoff at that number, however, you’ll be glad to know that there are 16 new numbers for you to enjoy. Yes, sixteen! This includes an original score by Tony winners Stephen Flaherty (music) and Lynn Ahrens (lyrics). Coincidentally, both Flaherty and Ahrens penned the songs for the original 1997 adventure film. And what’s the best song? The magical duo has expanded their score, which contains “Journey To The Past” and “Once Upon A December” in order to fit theatrical production conventions.
Casting
To add even more excitement and buzz to the upcoming fall tour, the complete casting list has just been announced very recently. So, who are going to play your favorite characters? The cast will be starring Lily Coogan as Anya, Stephen Bower as Dimitri, Joy Franz as the Dowager Empress, Michael Evans as Gleb. Other supporting characters will be played by Tari Kelly as Countess Lily and Edward Staudenmayer as Vlad. Victoria Amelia Bingham will be playing as little Anastasia.
Everything to win! Lila Coogan will star in the national tour of Broadway's ANASTASIA: https://t.co/rpUkOJuSuB pic.twitter.com/Wc4QqDbdT3
— broadway.com (@broadwaycom) July 25, 2018
The traveling party will also feature Brianna Abruzzo, Peter Garza, Jeremiah Ginn, Brett-Marco Glauser, Lucy Horton, Mary Illes, Fred Inkley, Kourtney Keitt, Beth Stafford Laird, Mark MacKillop, Kenneth Michael Murray, Taylor Quick, Claire Rathbun, Michael McCorry Rose, Matt Rosell, Sareen Tchekmedyian, Addison Mackynzie Valentino, Alison Ewing, and Ronnie S. Bowman Jr.,
Reviews and General Reception
Anastasia’s Broadway musical is currently meeting some mixed reviews from theater critics. Ben Brantley of the New York Times, feels particularly peckish about it. “The amnesiac title character of “Anastasia,” who may or may not be the long-lost daughter of the last Russian czar, isn’t alone in suffering a serious identity crisis. The postcard-scenic show that bears her name, has its own troubling case of multiple personality disorder.”
But NBC New York’s Dave Quinn begs to differ. “Broadway’s got a bright new star, and her name is “Anastasia.” The 1997 beloved animated movie has been transformed into a magical new stage musical.” And Hollywood Reporter’s David Rooney can’t help but agree when he said, “It’s kitschy, old-fashion entertainment given a relatively sophisticated presentation, and you have to acknowledge its success when you hear the target demographic swoon on cue.”
The general consensus in the average viewer demographic, however, is mostly favorable. It’s safe to say that no matter who you are or what age you’re in, you are bound to enjoy this musical. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and book the tickets as early as now. Anastasia is likely going to be on fire in Broadway this year!
Show Dates and Venues
To know more about ticket availability in your surrounding area, click here.
Anastasia is currently playing previews at the Broadhurst Theater in New York. The musical will continue to play until June of 2019. For more information about ticket availability, prices, and schedule, at this particular venue, visit our site.
For the official North American traveling tour, click here.
Movie Adaptation
As if a musical Broadway adaptation isn’t enough. Wait until you hear that a movie – an actual live action one – is in the works! You’ve heard it right. Anastasia will also come back to the big screen. Netflix has yet to announce the release date, as they are so tight-lipped about it. But we do know that it’s going to come out this year. If things go according to plan, we get to see two versions of Anastasia this year. What a treat!
Emily Carey will be playing the role of the Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna alongside Brandon Routh as Nicholas II of Russia. Amiah Miller will be playing Megan and Armando Guttierez will also star as Grigori Rasputin. Additionally, famous South Korean actor Lee Tae Ri is set to make a Hollywood debut on this film as Prince Lee.