Opened: April 24, 2017
Book by: Terrence McNally
Music by: Stephen Flaherty
Lyrics by: Lynn Ahrens
Original Broadway Cast: Christy Altomare, Derek Klena, John Bolton, Ramin Karimloo, Caroline O’Connor, Mary Beth Peil, Zach Adkins, Sissy Bell, Lauren Blackman, Kyle Brown, Janet Dickinson, Constantine Germanacos, Wes Hart, Ken Krugman, Shina Ann Morris, James A. Pierce, Molly Rushing, Nicole Scimeca, Johnny Stellard, Allison Walsh & Beverly Ward
Probably the best animated film that isn’t Disney has finally come to Broadway.
Based on the historical mystery, the Romanov family was executed during the political uprising in early 1900s Russia. But, several believe Anastasia (Christy Altomare) survived. The Dowager Empress (Mary Beth Peil) offers a reward for Anastasia’s return and Dmitry (Derek Klena) and Vlad (John Bolton) are vying for it.
Altomare is extraordinary in the title role and has every quality that a princess should. Unfortunately for fans of the film, that’s not how Anastasia was portrayed. She loses her spunk and sarcastic edge in this adaptation.
Staging problems contribute to the worst parts of the show. Too many songs have almost everyone leave the stage with the character singing stuck standing in the middle singing without movement.
Final say: Sometimes boring, but Caroline O’Connor steals the show. ★★★☆☆
