If you ask Millennials about the animated films that defined their childhood, many will likely mention Anastasia, the 1997 movie that captured hearts with its charming characters and unforgettable music. Despite not being a Disney production, it shares the magical essence of classic ’90s Disney animations.
Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, the talented duo behind Anastasia’s iconic songs, were entrusted with transforming the beloved movie into a stage musical. Their task was to retain the essence of the original while infusing new elements to create a more mature interpretation for theater. As Ahrens reflects on this journey, she shares,
“We all grew up on that movie… It was enlightening to revisit it and discover its deeper emotional richness.”
The transition from screen to stage involved reimagining familiar characters like eliminating the talking bat and evil wizard Rasputin to offer audiences a fresh perspective. Flaherty adds his insight by saying,
“It felt like meeting old friends after a long time and exploring new dimensions of these characters.”
This evolution allowed them to delve into character backgrounds previously unexplored in the film.
Upon witnessing audiences’ reactions during the show’s debut performance, Ahrens was moved by the sight of fans dressed as Anastasia herself. This spectacle highlighted the enduring impact of Anastasia on those who cherished it in their youth. The musical’s ability to resonate across generations underscores its timeless appeal.
Despite varying reviews for different productions of Anastasia, including some less favorable critiques from renowned critics like Ben Brantley, Ahrens maintains her focus on creating work that resonates with audiences worldwide. She acknowledges that critical reception can be subjective and doesn’t deter her dedication to crafting meaningful stories through music.
Reflecting on past experiences such as their collaboration on Seussical—a production met with harsh criticism yet went on to become one of America’s most performed children’s shows—Ahrens humorously mentions how setbacks can lead to unexpected successes in creative endeavors. This resilience is evident in their continuous pursuit of delivering captivating performances.
As Anastasia prepares for its upcoming shows in Australia following successful runs in various countries since 2016, Ahrens draws parallels between nurturing creativity and seeing it flourish despite initial challenges. The enduring popularity of Anastasia reaffirms its status as a theatrical gem cherished by audiences globally.
With each staging adding new layers to its legacy, Anastasia continues enchanting audiences far beyond its origins as an animated film—a testament to the enduring magic of storytelling through theater.
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