REVIEW: Repertory Theatre of St. Louis Present Powerful Production of THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

Playwright Wendy Kesselman has referred to her current adaptation of The Diary of Anne Frank (Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett) as the definitive version, and considering the fact that newly available passages of Anne's diary were incorporated into the text, it's certainly more eye opening in a lot of respects. Kesselman gives us a more thorough understanding of Anne, while also enhancing some of the darker aspects of her story, packing this episode in history with considerable emotional weight. The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis is presenting a superb staging of this fresh adaptation (February 10 - March 7), featuring a stellar ensemble that breathes new life into this tragic tale.

The play is a dramatization of the events that occurred as the Frank family fled the Nazi's invasion of Holland, living in seclusion with another family to avoid being persecuted as Jews. Over a two year period Anne recounts the struggles that the Frank and van Daan families (later joined by Mr. Dussel, a dentist) faced as they attempted to keep themselves hidden from the watchful gaze of the authorities.

Lauren Orkus is a marvel as Anne, ably conveying her change over time from irritating chatterbox to blossoming young woman as she matures. John Rensenhouse also impresses as her father, Otto, acting as a voice of calm and reason in the face of insurmountable odds. Ann Talman is a pillar of restraint as Anne's mother, Edith. Deep down she knows there's little hope, but she does everything in her power to maintain her dignity and resolve. Maggie Wetzel is also convincing as Anne's older sister Margot, her mother's obvious favorite.

Peter Van Wagner imbues Mr. van Daan with a host of imperfections, providing a necessary counter balance to the Frank family's more positive outlook toward life. Peggy Billo is strong as his embittered wife, and when she's forced to sell the one link left to her father, a fur coat he gave her, you can really feel her sense of loss. Andrew Stroud is very good as their son Peter Van Daan. He's initially annoyed at Anne's impetuous behavior, and retreats to the limited privacy of his small room, but as time passes and they both mature, the friction between them begins to spark romantically.

A solid supporting cast includes: Gary Wayne Barker as Mr. Dussel, a fussy dentist who joins the family; and Maura Kidwell and Jerry Vogel as Miep Gies and Mr. Kraler, who risk their own lives to bring food and information to both families.

Director Steven Woolf does splendid work here, maintaining an engaging pace, and keeping his actors focused and believable. He's greatly aided by John Ezell's brilliant scenic design, which dominates the proceedings, and Phil Monat's dramatic lighting scheme. Elizabeth Covey contributes nicely understated costuming that neatly fits the period. Rusty Wandall's clever sound design also contributes to the tense atmosphere.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis's powerful presentation of The Diary of Anne Frank continues through March 7 at the Loretto-Hilton.

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