World of intrigue comes to life in Flathead High School musical

Her past is a mystery. Her future is an adventure.   

“Anastasia: The Musical,” presented by Flathead High School Theatre, will transport audiences into a world of intrigue, revolution, and hope, Feb. 5, 7 and 8.  

Based on the beloved 1997 animated film, “Anastasia” tells the story of Anya, a young woman determined to uncover the mystery of her past, tied to the Romanov family. Pursued by a relentless Soviet officer, she is helped by Dmitry, a charming con man and a former aristocrat. Together, they embark on a daring adventure to find love, family, and home. 

“There are many themes in this story such as the need for family whether that is our biological family or a found family and how to handle family expectations. And, both Anastasia and the villain Gleb have to try to live up to their fathers’ expectations,” show director Luke Johnson said. “However, we choose to focus on the power of memory and how we can use the past to bring us hope for the future. In the show you will see how we bring memories in the light and how Anastasia gathers strength and confidence from her memories. We hope that this highlights how we can all use what we have done in the past to give us confidence for the future.”  

Featuring a stunning score by Broadway legends Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, the musical includes a mix of grand ballads, intimate solos and lively ensemble numbers. The show’s choreography blends ballroom dances, ballet and other styles inspired by the 1920s, transporting audiences to both the grandeur of St. Petersburg and the lively streets of Paris.  

“This musical is for all ages. The music, dancing and fun moments will entertain children while the more sophisticated and historical plot and powerful score will engage adults,” Johnson said. “This show is based on the animated movie “Anastasia;” however, it has many new songs and a more sophisticated villain. The musical has many funny moments while taking a more serious look at the effect of the rumors of Anastasia’s survival from the Romanov execution then the animated version.”  

This production showcases the talents of students, who have worked diligently to master this dazzling show.  With a cast of 38 students and a crew about the same size, “Anastasia” has been a collaborative effort with teacher Beau Servo’s woodshop class, Spencer Allen’s metals classes and Liz Sykora’s sewing class making the sets and costumes. 

The cast includes Helena Pershall, Jolee Pitts, October Ellcey, Szonja Czinner, Nalani Sullivan, Mia Lamantia, Hazel Bridge, Hunter Mitchell, Miles Kuss, Bayliss Cummings, Collin Olson, Lincoln McElwain, Fallon Maas, Maxwell Jones, Bronson Willcut, Austin Caudill, Ryker Parkman, Samara Hackley, Jennifer Agin, Robert Brantley, Emma Blodgett, Emma Brist, Teyvia Davis, Melody Hantz, Myla Johnson, Aubrie Mannon, Mia Martinez, Keelan Moore, Matthew Monen, Emmah Sawyer and Gracyne Johnson as Anastasia. 

The Dance Corps includes Anouk Lee, Audrey Cozad, Annie Patterson, Alexis Taylor and Makenzie Westphal. 

The stage sound and lighting crews include Michael Palmer, Sophie Hebert, Iris Bruce, Colin Lincoln, Simon Ort, Justin Dennison, Jacob Braach, Grayson Vallette, Ethan Kauffman, Piper McElwain, Paisley Boykin-Smith, Ali Putzler, Adalicia O’Brien, Lilith Amundson, Tovar Rodriguez, Kendall McKinney, Kennerly Fuller, Akaiyan Fuller, Teegan O’Donnell, Zoey Franklin, Atlas Jaques and Elysia Hernandez make up the stage, sound and lighting crew. 

Performances will be held at 6:27 p.m. with a special 1 p.m. matinee performance on Feb. 8. All performances will be held in the Flathead performance hall, 644 Fourth Ave. W., Kalispell.   

Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for children, students and senior citizens. Tickets may be purchased online at https://gofan.co by searching “Flathead High School,” or in the high school main office.   

    Featuring a stunning score by Broadway legends, Flathead High School's performance of "Anastasia: The Musical" includes ballads and solos and choreography that blends ballroom dances, ballet and other styles inspired by the 1920s. (Courtesy photo)