The Diary of Anne Frank

The Diary of Anne Frank: Artistic self-actualization distorts realism and sustains optimism
Words by Nick Pannu, CJSF Radio 90.1 fin.

The Western Canadian premiere of The Diary of Anne Frank is presented by the Arts Club theatre at the Stanley Industrial Alliance stage. The Diary of Anne Frank is a Goodrich & Hackett production directed by Rachel Ditor. Performances are scheduled from September 28 until October 23. CJSF contributor, Nick Pannu reviews the show.

The play examines the plight of a Jewish family living in a German conquered territory during World War II. They struggle to remain hidden from Nazi troops that regularly patrol the streets seeking out Jews. Two Jewish families manage to tactfully elude Nazi officials by hiding in a secret annex above a warehouse.

The families are confined to the annex and never able to venture outside. They are sustained by former domestic helpers who transport rations, books and other amenities to the residents. Eventually, these individuals succumb to their involuntary imprisonment. They start suffering from physical ailments, rations start to deplete, highlighting their perpetual fear of being discovered by the Nazis. They hear broadcasts on the radio of the inevitable death that Jews suffer and horrific circumstances experienced prior to execution. Children in the annex have dreams of their friends dying in concentration camps. Yet, in spite of the developing unrest, there is an all-encompassing spirit within the annex that is able to subdue the turmoil.

The youngest teenager, Anne Frank, alleviates the calamity through her vivacious optimism, and humor. When others are apprehensive about the vile food that they sometimes have to eat, Anne persuades them by pretending the food is something exquisite. Her indifference to their circumstances in the annex sometimes allows others to suspend their disbelief and immerse themselves into Anne's false realism. Anne's Diary is her outlet that sustains her optimism, thus the saving grace of everyone's despair.

Seasoned and novice stage actors give an uncomprising brilliant performance. It is possible that the conviction of each artist to tell Anne Frank's story was so strong that their performance became enhanced by it. The director and various actors articulate the importance of Anne's tragedy in the play's publication. As well, the lighting and sound designers deserve special praise for making the experience very impressionable. It actually seemed like bombs were being dropped and Nazi Gestapo were marching in the streets.

This production puts names, faces, ambitions and virtues to the victims of the holocaust. It's almost a revelation within itself to realize that once you get to know even eight eventual victims through a play, you will never be able to desensitize yourself from such a horrific tragedy.

The Diary of Anne Frank is playing at the Stanely Industrial Alliance Stage, 2750 (Between West 11th & 12th Ave) Granville St., Vancouver until October 23. Call 604-687-1644.