A deeper look into the cast of Anastasia
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.
Portraying the Dowager Empress, a grandmother mourning the loss of her family and searching for her long-lost granddaughter, is Bailey Sutton. Sutton is a professional opera singer with a master’s degree in Vocal Performance from East Carolina University. With her rich vocal ability and heartfelt presence, Sutton brings a regal grace to the role.
In the role of Tsarina Alexandra, Alyssa Bayless makes a heartfelt return to the LCC stage. When she’s not acting, Bayless enjoys audiobooks and traveling with her family. She expresses gratitude to the entire production team and her loved ones for their continued support. Her performance captures the emotional core of Anastasia’s origin story.
Two young local talents, Ellen Mewborn and Nora Standen, share the role of Young Anya and Alexei. Mewborn is no stranger to the stage but is making her musical debut with this production. She loves dancing, piano, and performing—and her excitement is contagious. Standen, making her stage debut, shines with natural charisma and a joyful spirit. When she’s not singing or tumbling in gymnastics, she enjoys writing songs and spending time with her friends and family.
Rounding out this group is Jack Rooney, returning as Tsar Nicholas and also portraying Gorlinsky. A familiar face to LCCFPA audiences, Rooney is deeply passionate about music and grateful for the community that has shaped his journey. His portrayal adds weight and compassion to the show’s historical backdrop.
Together, these cast members bring depth, heart, and humanity to the sweeping tale of Anastasia. Whether it’s your first visit to the Turner Stage or you’ve followed the series for years, this performance is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic unfold this July.
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