‘Anastasia’ Brings Broadway Brilliance To The Cape Playhouse

Prepare yourself for one of the most exquisite, high-quality musicals of the summer at the Cape Playhouse. “Anastasia,” which opened last week at the legendary Dennis Village theater, is a captivating tale of love and despair that will transport audiences from Russia to Paris in the 1920s. The music is emotional and catchy and the lavish costumes are thoroughly captivating, luring the audience in for an unforgettable journey. 

The Tony Award-winning production of “Anastasia,” with book by Terrance McNally with music and lyrics from Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, debuted on Broadway in 2017 and had countless national and international tours through the years.

 The musical adapts the tale of the Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia. “Anastasia” is rooted in the historical events surrounding the Romanov family and their brutal murders. The youngest daughter Anastasia was rumored to have survived the attack. “Anastasia” is a reimagining of what could have happened to the young girl as she discovers the puzzle pieces of her mysterious past. 

 With expert direction by Eric Rosen, the Playhouse’s current artistic director, “Anastasia” is brought to life in a magical and memorable way. The production features choreography from Emmy Award-winning Al Blackstone and phenomenal costume design by Annie J. Le. The show includes a nine-piece live orchestra and runs around two hours long with one intermission. “Anastasia” features an outstanding slate of musical numbers, including “Journey to the Past,” “Paris Holds the Key” and “Once Upon a December.”

Cast in the leading role of the brave and determined Anya/Anastasia is Kyla Stone. Stone notably made history as the first African American Anya in the show’s national tour. Her solo deliveries of “In My Dreams’ and “Journey to the Past” were exquisite and heartfelt. Stone’s vocal talent was truly captivating.

Dominic Dorset plays Dmitry, a conman with a heart of gold. Dorset had previously spent 18 months playing the role of Kristoff in the American tour of Disney’s “Frozen.” In the role of Vlad, Dmitry’s loveable sidekick and partner in crime, is Erik Lochtefeld, who comes to the Playhouse with vast Broadway, off-Broadway and TV and film appearances. Both actors deliver brilliant and witty performances, especially in their number “A Rumor in St. Petersburg.”

In the role of Deputy Commissioner Gleb Vaganov is Roe Hartampf, Kate Marilley plays Countess Lily and Christine Toy Johnson plays the Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna.

There is something for everyone in “Anastasia,” whether it’s romance, humor or mystery. The soaring musical numbers and breathtaking storyline is timeless. The high-caliber execution of the show is beyond topnotch. Rosen delivers an exceptional Broadway experience that won’t soon be forgotten. 

DETAILS
“Anastasia”

At the Cape Playhouse, Route 6A, Dennis

Through Aug. 2 

Information and reservations: 508-385-3911, capeplayhouse.com