Full Breakdown
Birmingham Village Players Present "The Diary of Anne Frank"
2/25/2026, 6:12:51 AM
Production Overview
The Birmingham Village Players are set to perform "The Diary of Anne Frank" from March 6 to March 22, 2026. This production is based on the true story of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who documented her life while hiding from the Nazis during World War II. The cast includes 13-year-old Josephine O’Reilly from Grosse Pointe in the titular role, marking her debut with the Birmingham Village Players.
Cast Insights
Josephine O’Reilly expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to portray Anne Frank, stating, “I’m really glad the show came, because I feel like I learned so much.” O’Reilly, who has been involved in theater since age nine, noted the emotional challenges of performing such a serious role. She has developed coping strategies, including breathing exercises, to manage the intensity of the scenes.
Joshua Harney, who plays Anne’s father, Otto Frank, has previously portrayed the character and recognizes the emotional weight of the performance. He emphasized the importance of supporting younger cast members through the rehearsal process, saying, “As kind of like a mentor to them onstage, I try and help them get out of that quicker.”
Caryn Gach Leonard, portraying Edith Frank, shared her personal connection to the role, stating, “For me as a Jewish woman and a mother, playing a ‘real’ Jewish woman and mother who suffered through the harrow of the Holocaust is both an honor and emotional undertaking.” Udi Kapen, the current president of Village Players, plays Mr. Van Daan and reflected on the significance of the story, noting its relevance in contemporary times.
Director's Perspective
Director Michael A. Gravame expressed his long-standing admiration for Anne Frank's story, stating, “The impact Anne has had on the world was immeasurable then and is still to this day.” He believes that the narrative is crucial to share, especially in the current societal climate.
Performance Details
The performances will take place at the Birmingham Village Players located at 34660 Woodward Ave., Birmingham. Showtimes are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, with matinees at 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are priced at $30 and can be purchased through the box office or the Birmingham Village Players website.
Conclusion
The Birmingham Village Players' production of "The Diary of Anne Frank" aims to honor the legacy of Anne Frank and educate audiences about the Holocaust. The cast's personal connections to the material enhance the emotional depth of the performance, making it a significant event for both participants and viewers alike.
