Anastasia: The Musical brings magic and mystery to the LCC Turner Stage
By: Cailyn Kennedy
This summer, journey through time with Anastasia: The Musical as it takes center stage at Lenoir Community College’s Briley Auditorium. Based on the beloved animated film and the legendary mystery of the Romanov family, the show follows Anya, a young woman with no memory of her past, as she teams up with two schemers to discover her true identity. From the shadows of post-revolutionary Russia to the glitz of 1920s Paris, Anastasia is a sweeping adventure filled with breathtaking music, emotional discovery, and the enduring search for home.
The production, directed by LCC’s Jessica Cruz, will run July 11–13 and July 18–20 in the Briley Auditorium on the Turner Stage. As part of the Lenoir Community College Performing Arts Series, the show invites audiences of all ages to step into a world of romance, resilience, and royal intrigue. Tickets are available now at www.lenoircc.edu/lccfpa. Ticket prices are as follows: orchestra seating – $20.00, standard seating – $15.00, accessible seating – $15.00, and student standard seating (ages 4–17 or 18+ with student ID) – $10.00.
Taking on the lead role of Anya is Rosie Cruz, returning to the Turner Stage with her signature blend of charisma and emotional depth. Cruz has previously captivated audiences as Wednesday in The Addams Family and Minnie Fay in Hello, Dolly! When she’s not on stage, she enjoys reading and watching movies and credits her family and friends for their ongoing support.
Joining her on this journey is William Duvall as Dmitry, the clever conman with a hidden heart. Duvall is a familiar face in the ENC theatre scene, with past roles including Bobby in Urinetown, Danny in Grease, and Shakespeare in Something Rotten. He brings wit and energy to this iconic role and is proud to be part of such a dynamic ensemble.
Count Vlad Popov, Dmitry’s partner in crime, is played by Michael L. McGann. McGann has appeared as Kenickie in Grease and starred in Something Rotten. His comedic timing and stage presence add a delightful charm to Vlad’s role, especially alongside Countess Lily.
Okisha Wells brings elegance and flair to the role of Countess Lily, a spirited former aristocrat with dreams of Parisian glamour. A seasoned performer from Goldsboro, Wells has been performing for over 25 years and still sets her sights on Broadway. Her commanding voice and vivacious energy light up the stage.
Sean Jeffries steps into the role of Gleb, a conflicted Soviet officer torn between duty and emotion. Jeffries currently teaches theatre arts at Ayden Grifton High School and is a graduate of Wright State University’s theatre program. His experience with local groups like New Bern Civic Theatre, Rivertowne Players, and Magnolia Arts Center adds depth and gravity to his performance.
From sweeping ballads to toe-tapping showstoppers, this production of Anastasia is one you won’t want to miss. Join us for a magical escape where courage, love, and destiny collide.
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