The Diary of Anne Frank

This well know story is factual and powerful. It was given the Abbey Theatre treatment and shone. For her first time as producer Maddie deserves our thanks and applause for tackling a challenging project.

We opened on a clever set which portrayed the extreme conditions endured by the characters. Another triumph for the set builders of the club. Into this dramatic setting we were introduced to the characters who told the story with such passion. All of the cast brought their considerable talents to their roles. A kindly caring Mr Frank (Jim Shaw) and his wife played with perfect understanding by Brenda Reid. Into hiding they brought their two daughters Margo (Erin Swankie) and Anne (Evie Maddicks). These young performers showed considerable understanding of characterisation and worked well with the older cast members. The other family we were introduced to were the Van Daan’s. A greedy husband and a prissy wife played by Neil Stirling and Ruth Mckay who gave excellent performances of a degeneration in morals as their time in captivity went on. Their son Peter (Khye Potter) managed with style to portray the opposite, a sulky, angry teenager to compassionate young man. The last captive is neurotic fussy Mr Dussel (James Callachan) who gave us a classic study in acting. Last but not least we have Meip Gies (River Streets) and Mr Kraler (Callum Baker) both gave secure performances as the saviours of the group. A special mention must be made to Safiyyah Mallick who also played Anne. Well done to all.

The costumes were well organised and period secure. Lighting, props and effects completed the picture. The many scene changes were managed effectively by the stage manager but were lengthy in places, perhaps the introduction of some music with the diary readings would have been another option. However I cannot applaud the theatre staff and cast enough after the unexpected fire alarm towards the end of Act 2. All helped with the evacuation of the building and securing the safety of all. After the 15 minuets break the cast resumed the performance with professionalism to an ovation from the audience.

As always the hospitality was delightful and the theatre was looking so good. Another triumph for the Abbey Theatre Club. 

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