By Joanie Cox-Henry
History and fantasy waltz together in perfect time in Slow Burn Theatre Company's enchanting production of Anastasia: The Musical. Under Patrick Fitzwater's assured direction, this lavish musical adaptation transforms the familiar tale of the lost Romanov princess into a rich exploration of identity that resonates with profound authenticity.
Mikayla Cohen brings a compelling mix of vulnerability and determination to Anya, the street sweeper who may or may not be the Grand Duchess Anastasia. Her crystalline voice soars in the musical's signature numbers "Journey to the Past" and "Once Upon a December," while her chemistry with Jarod Bakum's charismatic Dmitry beams with profound possibility.
The production's visual elements are nothing short of spectacular. Nikolas Serrano's scenic design seamlessly transitions from the fading grandeur of St. Petersburg to the Art Deco glamour of 1920s Paris, while Rick Peña's costumes dazzle and delight with period authenticity. I had heard that the costumes for this show would be elaborate but nothing prepared me for the showstopping parade of fashions that would grace Amaturo's Theater for this musical.
Laura Turnbull delivers a masterful performance as the Dowager Empress, with her grief and longing overflowing in every scene. Sean William Davis brings nuanced complexity and a powerful, showstopping vocal performance to Gleb, the Soviet officer torn between duty and conscience, while Aaron De Jesus and Gail Bennett provide welcome comic relief as Vlad and Countess Lily with tenacity and grace.
The production's commitment to accessibility, featuring both sensory-inclusive and open-captioned performances, extends the musical's reach with thoughtful consideration. Stephen Flaherty's music and Lynn Ahrens' lyrics, beautifully rendered under Ryan Crout's musical direction, weave together Russian folk influences with Broadway polish. The ensemble numbers, enhanced by Cat Pagano's fluid choreography, paint a vivid picture of a world in transition.
This Anastasia invites audiences on an unforgettable journey through memory, identity, and possibility. It proves itself a production not to be missed. It's a perfect production to take in during the holiday season and it would make an unforgettable gift you and and a special person in your life to enjoy together.
Slow Burn Theatre Company’s Anastasia: The Musical is at Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 S.W. Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale
Performances run through Sunday, Jan. 5. A sensory-inclusive performance with a post-show meet and greet will occur 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 28 at and an open captioned performance is at 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 29. Tickets cost $54 to $85. Call 954-462-0222 or BrowardCenter.org
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