Hickory Community Theatre to present Broadway musical 'Anastasia'

Nov. 4—The enchanting and timeless Broadway musical "Anastasia" is set to captivate audiences at the Hickory Community Theatre.

Prepare to be transported to a world of romance, adventure and mystery as the production comes to life on the Pamela Livingstone Stage in the Charles E. Jeffers Theatre.

"Anastasia," based on the beloved animated film and inspired by the legend of Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia, is a musical masterpiece that has touched the hearts of audiences around the world.

With stunning music and lyrics by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, and a compelling book by Terrence McNally, this musical brings to life the epic journey of a young woman as she embarks on a quest to discover her true identity.

Showcasing the outstanding talents of local and regional actors, the Hickory Community Theatre promises an unforgettable experience for theatergoers of all ages.

"Anastasia" will transport you to the grandeur of Russia, the glittering streets of Paris, and the mystery of a lost royal princess.

Two actors share the title role. Allie Matthews plays Anastasia as a girl in Russia and Angelina Bassi plays her as a young woman, going by the name Anya, on the streets of Paris. Both actors are making their HCT debut in this production.

Matthews is a Hickory native who is currently a fifth grade student. Although "Anastasia" is her first production at HCT it is not her first time on stage. She has six prior shows to her credit, including "Finding Nemo Jr.," "Charlotte's Web," and "Cinderella" at the Green Room Community Theatre and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" at the Newton Performing Arts Center.

Matthews' extensive performing arts training includes studies in advanced improvisation, acting techniques, character development and vocal performance.

"I chose to audition for Anastasia because my mimi took me to see the play," she said.

Bassi loves the show so much that she is commuting from her home in Kernersville five nights a week for rehearsals.

A classically trained singer, she has a bachelor's degree in vocal performance from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and has been performing academically and professionally in musical theatre and opera across the state since 2016.

Her favorite roles include Violetta in "La traviata," Glinda in "Wicked: Unplugged," The Baker's Wife in "Into the Woods," and Laurentia in "Captain Lovelock."

Bassi says she chose "Anastasia" because, "I grew up watching the '90s animated movie and Anya has been a dream role of mine since I learned it was being adapted for the stage."

Performances of "Anastasia" are Fridays and Saturdays, Nov. 24 through Dec. 16, at 7:30 pm; Sundays, Dec. 3 and Dec. 10 at 2:30 p.m.; and Thursday, Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $16 for adults and $10 for students. Tickets may be purchased online at hickorytheatre.org/box-office or by phone at 828-328-2283.

"Anastasia" is suitable for all audiences but parents are advised to visit the show's website, anastasiathemusical.com for more information.

The Hickory Community Theatre's 75th anniversary season is sponsored by A Cleaner World, Green Park Dentistry, Paramount Automotive and Sunbelt Xpress. "Anastasia" is produced by Catawba Valley Health System. The Hickory Community Theatre is a funded affiliate of the United Arts Council of Catawba County.