Review: The Diary of Anne Frank, Sheringham Little Theatre

Olivia Taylor, 15, from Aylsham, who is playing Anne Frank in a Sheringham production. Picture: ERIC BRICKLES (Image: Archant)

Sheringham Little Theatre

I have heard rumours that this adaptation of Anne Frank by Wendy Kesselman is soon to transfer to London's West End.

If that's so, it seems to me that the lead in Cromer and Sheringham Operatic and Dramatic Society's production is every bit as good as any professional counterpart... maybe even better.

Olivia Taylor as Anne Frank is so well worth seeing, that I wouldn't want you to miss her for anything.

Her understated approach to the performance is just right for the material; this is an interpretation which shows judgement well beyond her 15 years.

Which is not to detract from the others on stage, because all the characters are well drawn and consistent. I was impressed by the level of the whole ensemble.

And director Kirk Wills really gives them the chance to shine. The apartment where Anne's Jewish family hides from the Nazis is arranged over many levels, so that we see the characters going about their business all the time. It's a clever device, which gives a sense of the relentless proximity their imprisonment inflicted.

The show coincides with a major project at Sheringham High School to highlight the holocaust, also set in motion by Wills. It's good to see some joined up thinking between the theatre and the local community. Bravo all round.

The show runs until Saturday.

Eve Stebbing