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By John Posada

originally published: 04/05/2023 

(HOLMDEL, NJ) -- The Diary of Anne Frank has captivated readers around the world for decades, and now, audiences in Holmdel will have the chance to experience the powerful story in a new theatrical production. The Holmdel Theatre Company production, directed by Amy Jones, produced by Laurie Devino and performed by a talented ensemble, will run weekends from Saturday, April 15th to Sunday, April 30th. Photographer John Posada was at a rehearsal to take photos.

Based on the real-life journal of a young girl who lived in hiding during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, the play (by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, in a new adaptation by Wendy Kesselman) brings to life the experiences of Anne Frank and her family as they struggle to survive in a cramped attic space for years. The production explores themes of isolation, fear, and hope, as well as the enduring power of the human spirit in even the darkest of times.

Each day of these two dark years, Anne's voice shines through: "When I write, I shake off all my cares. But I want to achieve more than that. I want to be useful and bring enjoyment to all people, even those I've never met. I want to go on living even after my death!" This is a new adaptation for a new generation.

The cast includes Katie Bauer (Anne Frank), Sandy Nolan (Otto Frank), Stephanie Long (Edith Frank), Gabriela Postigo (Margot Frank), Felicia Russell (Miep Gies), Bryan Reimertz (Peter Van Daan), Lori Cortese-Buckheit (Mrs. Van Daan), Jesse Luciani (Mr. Van Daan), Mike Vails (Mr. Kraler), Bryan Ponemon (Mr. Dussel), Jesse Luciani (Mr. Van Daan), Steve Lukawski (Nazi Officer), Justin Piehler (Dutch Collaborator #1, and Cooper Bilsland (Dutch Collaborator #2).

The production also features stunning set design by Jefferson Ridenour and costumes by Jacquie Revier, which transport audiences back to the Amsterdam of the 1940s.

 

Advertise with New Jersey Stage for $50-$100 per month, click here for info

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“We are thrilled to be bringing this powerful story to life on stage,” said director, Amy Jones. “The Diary of Anne Frank has been read by millions of people around the world, but there’s nothing quite like experiencing the story as a live performance. We hope that audiences will be moved and inspired by this production, and that it will encourage them to reflect on the importance of compassion, empathy, and resilience in the face of adversity.”

Performances take place Fridays at 8:00pm; Saturdays at 8:00pm; and Sundays at 2:00pm. Tickets for the production are available now at www.holmdeltheatrecompany.org. Performances take place at 36 Crawfords Corner Road in Holmdel, New Jersey.

Here are more photos from the production.

John Posada is a New Jersey based photographer specializing in live theatre and music performances. For more than 10 years, John has photographed live music events where he mastered the techniques of timing and capturing fast moving action under challenging lighting conditions to capture that perfect moment that tells a story in a single image. Currently, John has photographed over 110 productions for over 70 different theatres and venues. Click here for John's website.

Advertise with New Jersey Stage for $50-$100 per month, click here for info

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