Flathead High School presents beloved story about a red-haired orphan in ‘Anne of Green Gables’
Flathead High School Theatre presents "Anne of Green Gables." Pictured: Ryan Kitzmiller as Moody, Ben Moore as Gilbert, director Gracyne Johnson, Adisen Haag as the Conductor, Sophia Bennett as Marilla, Fallon Maas as Anne, Jax Stebbins-Han as Mrs. Lynde, Isabelle Bennett as Diana Barry, Hadley Dennison as Ruby Gillis, Lily Amundson Jane Andrews and Kennedy Dortch as Josie Pye. (Courtesy photo)
Embark on a delightful journey and learn a few life lessons about love and friendship, along the way, in Flathead High School Theatre’s performances of “Anne of Green Gables” May 23 and 24.
Adapted by Peter DeLaurier from L.M. Montgomery's timeless novel, “Anne of Green Gables” follows the spirited adventures of Anne Shirley, a red-haired orphan known for her imagination and mischievous adventures. Set against the backdrop of Prince Edward Island at the turn of the century, this heartwarming tale chronicles Anne's journey from foster care to her unexpected arrival at the Cuthbert household in Avonlea.
When Anne arrives at Green Gables, she is devastated to learn that the elderly couple had been expecting a boy, and then elated when they decide to keep her. With her fiery temper, love of melodrama and romance, and affinity for misadventures, Anne brings laughter and happiness to the home she has longed for all of her life.
“This show is perfect for young children and anyone who grew up with this beloved story,” student Director Gracyne Johnson said.
This stage version of “Anne of Green Gables” faithfully recreates the memorable events and characters from Montgomery’s novel. All the tragedies and triumphs that mark Anne's growth from adolescence to early adulthood are included — her friendship with Diana, her feuds with Gilbert, her adoration of Matthew, the mistaken wine bottle, the scholastic achievements, and the saving of Green Gables.
“This show is about imagination and being able to find one’s own family. Anne is a representation of all children who will believe, love, and understand anything that fascinates them,” Johnson said. “She proves that anything can be fun as long as there is a little bit of dreaming. It’s a story of not only being yourself, but also finding friends and family who are true ‘kindred spirits.’”
The play is produced by the Flathead Acting 4 International Baccalaureate class. From tryouts to the final curtain call these students experience all aspects of theater from the challenging tasks of directing and acting to set design and lighting. Acting 4 is the highest level of theater classes offered at Flathead.
“Our class chose this show because we wanted to end the year with a play that is nostalgic and loved by many,” Johnson said. “It shows the beauty of the human experience, and it is both heartwarming and real.”
The cast of “Anne of Green Gables” includes Fallon Maas, Sophia Bennett, Collin Olson, Isabelle Bennett, Ben Moore, Adisen Haag, Jax Stebbins-Han, Ryan Kitzmiller, Hadley Dennison, Lily Amundson and Kennedy Dortch.
Behind the scenes, the technical crew includes Ali Putzler, Andrew Johnson, Axel Jones, Adalicia O’Brien, Iris Bruce, Lynne Beisel, Simon Ort, Ava Plum and Quinn Castruita.
Shows start at 6:27 p.m. at the David M. Hashley Theatre at the high school.
Ticket prices are $8 for adults and $6 for children, students and senior citizens. Tickets may be purchased online at gofan.co by searching “Flathead High School.” Tickets may also be purchased in the main office at Flathead, Photo Video Plus and at the door.