Alaina Tennant plays Anne Frank in the play “The Diary of Anne Frank,” now appearing at Weathervane Playhouse through April 20.
When I was in fourth grade, I read a book about Anne Frank. Back then, I saw her as a young girl who was very good at writing, so her diary was published into a book. But, I didn’t understand the rest.
The next year when we learned about the Holocaust, I realized that she was so much more. There’s something amazing about having hope during a time when everything is dark and dangerous. It’s not the kind of “amazing” I can begin to describe. It’s the kind of “amazing” that makes you wonder, and keeps you wondering how that kind of hope is even possible. And, in the end, you just can’t figure it out.
That same year I saw a performance of “The Diary of Anne Frank” with my best friend. I remember at intermission I was shaking because I knew what was coming. Yet, the characters were on stage laughing, smiling and loving each other, even though they were in terrible circumstances.
I remember having this strange feeling of love, hope, hate, fear, happiness and sadness all at the same time. Even now I can’t say I’ve ever felt that feeling again.
Being able to portray Anne Frank is something I still can’t believe I get to do. It’s such an honor to be playing such a strong and independent girl who has changed the lives of people all over the world.
Weathervane is a great place to perform. It’s welcoming and full of people who feel like family the moment you meet them. I’ve been able to share my experience with this wonderful group of people, and I love it all with every part of my heart. There have even been days where we laugh and cry within the same hour. I’ve had so much support from my friends and family, that it is truly unbelievable. This is one of the best experiences I’ve ever had.
There is a lot to learn and love from this play. The iconic story only becomes more inspiring every time you hear it. I am very excited to share the love and hope with everyone who comes to see the show. I can’t give enough love to everyone who has helped me throughout this experience. I wouldn’t trade it for the world, and have no words to express that enough. I hope we can all grow from the thoughts of Anne and the love shared in a time of hate. I hope that, like Anne, someday we will all believe that “people are truly good at heart.”
Showtimes for “The Diary of Anne Frank” are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 2:30 p.m., and Thursday, April 11 and 18 at 7:30 p.m. There are also daytime performances April 10 and 16 at 10 a.m. Tickets are $13 to $16 and may be purchased by calling (330) 836-2626 or visiting www.weathervaneplayhouse.com.Weathervane Playhouse is located at 1301 Weathervane Lane.
