April 26, 2025 – Clovis High School’s Drama Den is back and better than ever with their
spectacular performance of Anastasia: the Musical.
Set in the harsh but hopeful St. Petersburg and the lively, whimsical Paris, the production brings to life a classic story of a girl trying to discover her past.
Adapted from the beloved 1997 film, the musical explores the enduring legend of the Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia, rumored to have survived the Romanov family’s execution.
The story begins in a dreamlike palace, where young Anastasia’s heartfelt plea to her grandmother, the Dowager Empress Marie, to accompany her to Paris is met with a promise of a future reunion and a parting gift: a music box.
Senior Evelyn Buma embodies the Dowager Empress’s initial kindness, while 4th grader Parker Neeley perfectly captures young Anastasia’s trusting and endearing spirit.
However, the joy is shattered by the Russian Revolution, which brings news of the Romanovs’ assassination and transforms the Dowager Empress Marie into a woman deeply marked by loss, powerfully portrayed by Buma.
This marks a turn in her kind nature, turning the loving Marie into a bitter Dowager Empress affected deeply by the loss of her family. Buma’s performance of the grandmother’s grief strikes deeply into the hearts of those watching, crying, “All of them?”
Amidst the upheaval, a new order rises with the imposing figure of Gleb Vaganov, a Bolshevik general played with compelling intensity by senior Cesar Martinez, who declares Saint Petersburg the new Leningrad.
Yet, a spark of hope ignites in the downtrodden populace with “A Rumor in St. Petersburg,” suggesting Anastasia may have survived, prompting con men Dmitry (senior Jonathan Silva) and Vlad Popov (senior Ryan Moua) to concoct a scheme: find a convincing woman to impersonate her for the Dowager Empress’ hefty reward.
Their choice in Anya, a determined but amnesiac young woman brought to life by freshman Abbey Gerrard. Anya’s striking resemblance to the lost princess and her own fragmented memories surprise Dmitry and Vlad.
In “In My Dreams,” Anya reveals her lost past and her yearning for Paris, a city that calls to her in her dreams.
As Dmitry and Vlad groom Anya, word of their plan reaches the authorities and the relentless Gleb, determined to extinguish any remaining Romanov legacy, interrogates Anya. His words serve as a stark reminder of the danger she faces if her supposed
identity is revealed.
Anya, Dmitry, and Vlad’s narrow escape from Russia leads them to the vibrant and hopeful atmosphere of Paris, beautifully captured by the ensemble in “Paris Holds the Key (To Your Heart).” Gerrard’s radiant portrayal of Anya shines as she sings of her long-awaited arrival.
Audience members were delighted by the upbeat tune, moving their legs in their seats along with the music.
In Paris, Vlad reconnects with his old flame Lily, the Dowager Empress’s sharp-witted lady-in-waiting, played with delightful energy by senior Summer Jewell. Their humorous and flirtatious reunion in “The Countess and the Common Man” offers a lighthearted moment amidst the unfolding drama.
A turning point arrives when a nightmare shakes Anya, and Dmitry’s comforting story of a childhood encounter with Princess Anastasia sparks a profound connection between them.
Ultimately, Anya and Dmitry seek to convince the hardened Dowager Empress of Anya’s identity. The weight of years and countless false Anastasias makes the task daunting.
Meanwhile, Gleb’s pursuit continues in Paris, his determination to prevent Anastasia’s survival unwavering. The tension culminates in the powerful “Still / The Neva Flows (Reprise),” where Anya confronts Gleb with fierce resolve, Gerrard delivering a truly impactful performance.
Is Anya the true princess Anastasia? And does Gleb catch the three suspects attempting to con the Dowager Empress? You’ll have to catch the play to find out – and with just a few days remaining of the show, you’ll want to get your tickets soon.
Don’t miss Anastasia: The Musical in its’ final run at the Mercedes Edwards Theater, May 1-3!