Despite the obstacles 2020 presented for those trying to produce theatre, Sock ‘n’ Buskin, Pelham Memorial High School’s theatre program found an innovative way to present its fall production: The Diary of Anne Frank.  The show, directed by Mr. Beck and Mr. Schleifer, was made up of a ten-person cast and was available for streaming from December 11 through 13. 

The Diary of Anne Frank follows the story of a young teen girl in Amsterdam forced to go into hiding from the Nazi occupation of Holland in World War 2. For two years she and her family of four stayed exclusively confined in a small annex above her father’s shop.  Along with another family of three, and an older gentleman, her story is one of true resilience and the powers of love.  The play is based on an actual journal Anne wrote herself, and portrays the true power of hope in uncertain times.   

PMHS’s rendition was expertly performed, especially in dealing with the extenuating circumstances presented by the pandemic.  The show was pre-filmed and done completely virtually with those taking part in the scenes being the only ones on the screen.  The cast did remarkably well at helping the watcher visualize the scenes and feel as if they were in the same room.  In utilizing actual footage and photographs from the Nazi era, the show’s producers filled in the blanks the actors’ singular setting could not provide.   

A true standout was Malia McLellan who played the lead role of Anne Frank.  She showed great expression and emotion, embodying her character with true grace.  She was able to show Anne’s development and maturation as time passed, effortlessly, throughout the play.  Her dialogue was performed in an enthusiastic yet genuine manner, and worked seamlessly with the conversations of her co-stars.  The young actress also did well with Anne’s changing points of view, expertly switching between speaking directly to her diary/audience and to her fellow performers.  

Oliver Tam was another exceptional performer.  He played the part of the patient, doting father Otto Frank. Tam kept his character’s traits strongly evident through the way he sat and his tone of voice. He was able to invoke great emotion in watchers with descriptive language and expression.   

The whole cast was remarkable and was able to create a thought-provoking, emotion-inducing, impactful play.  Each actor was able to embody and take on their character’s personality and flaws. 

Cast:

Malia McLellan as Anne Frank 

Chloe Catana as Margot Frank

Bella Rosado as Edith Frank

Oliver Tam as Otto Frank

Natalie Pursel as Mrs. Van Daan

Austin Kelly as Mr. Van Daan

Vikram Jallepalli as Peter Van Daan

Ethan Luce as Mr. Dussell

Allison Felman as Miep

Soren Bushong as Mr.Kraler

Advisors:

Mr. Egan – Virtual Set Design

Mr. Riccobono – Technical Director

Mr. Schleifer – Costume Design, Director

Mr. Beck – Director