‘Anastasia: The Musical’ on stage this weekend at K-M

Kasson Middle School students will present ”Anastasia: The Musical (Youth Edition),” a fully student-driven production, this weekend.
The cast is made up entirely of middle school actors and set crew, many of whom are participating in theater for the very first time.
This year’s production holds special significance for Director Liz Harwood, as it marks the final year she will direct her son at the middle school level. Her son, currently an eighth grader, will transition to Kasson-Mantorville High School next fall, making this production a meaningful milestone for their family.
Adding to the collaborative spirit of the show, ”Anastasia: The Musical (Youth Edition)” is supported by a student director and student choreographer from Kasson-Mantorville High School, who provide mentorship and leadership to the middle school cast and crew. Throughout the rehearsal process, Harwood emphasized student voices by encouraging cast and crew members to contribute creatively through costume designs, prop ideas, and other artistic elements, making the production truly student-driven.
“Anastasia: The Musical (Youth Edition)” is a 60-minute adaptation of the Broadway hit, specially tailored for young actors. It is about discovering who you are and defining who you are meant to be.
The show transports the audience from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past.
Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing con man and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family.
“Anastasia: The Musical (Youth Edition)” will run Feb. 27—28 and Mar. 1 for one weekend only. Performance times are 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday, at the Performing Arts Center at Kasson-Mantorville High School.