Anastasia: The Musical Opens at LCC This Weekend
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.
As the curtain rises on Anastasia: The Musical at Lenoir Community College, more talented performers are stepping into the spotlight. From first-timers to returning cast members, this group brings energy, heart, and a whole lot of personality to the stage.
Abigail Hull is back for her second LCC production and couldn’t be more excited. Audiences may recognize Hull from her standout role as Peggy Sawyer in 42nd Street at North Lenoir High School. She’s proud to be part of such a talented cast and hopes everyone enjoys the show as much as she’s enjoyed being part of it.
Ella Grace White, a Pink Hill native and rising 8th grader at Woodington Middle School, joins the ensemble with a passion for performance. When she’s not dancing competitively or running track, Ella loves spending time with friends and family.
Kathleen Oleneack makes her LCC debut this season. A freshman at New Bern High School, Oleneack brings plenty of experience from productions like Newsies (RTP) and Camp Rock (NBCT). She’s been dancing for 13 years at Get the Pointe studio and sends a big thank-you to her parents for their support.
Parker Ball returns to LCC for his second production and his ninth overall. A recent North Lenoir High School graduate, Ball will attend East Carolina University in the fall. He’s excited to be part of the Anastasia cast and grateful to share the stage with such a talented group of performers.
Rounding out the group is Thomas Humphrey, back for his third LCCFPA production. Known for his rock ‘n’ roll energy, Humphrey mixes acting with music—playing guitar and drums whenever he can. He credits The Beatles, The Lemon Twigs, and his trusty AirPods for getting him stage-ready and thanks his family and friends for their support.
