Anne of Green Gables

This classic, turn-of-the-century novel, turned into a musical by Gretchen Cryer and Nancy Ford, could strike some modern audiences as Pollyannaish. Anne of Green Gablesis an innocent tale about a young orphan taken in by an aging couple (brother and sister) in a faraway state. However, the arrival of this 11-year-old girl, Anne Shirley, is met with surprise and derision. The couple “ordered” for a boy who could help Matthew around the farm. “What use do we have for a girl?” asks Marilla, a humorless, no-nonsense woman who prefers function to frivolity. Yet Anne manages to charm her way into their hearts. She does this most winningly in the song, “Kindred Spirits,” which she sings with Matthew.

Anne is initially scorned by the community, yet she manages to keep her high spirits through all sorts of adventures. Eventually, a heroic act earns the town’s admiration. The audience sees Anne grow into a bright young woman, eager and full of promise.

One can’t help thinking of parallels between this musical and the far-more-familiar Annie. In many ways, Anne’s older, more mature attitude is easier to take than Annie’s sometimes-annoying, “golly gee-pers” style of communicating. Although Anne will never inherit the fortune that is clearly going to be in Annie’s future, she doesn’t seem at all unhappy with a much simpler lifestyle.

One of the musical’s main themes is the concept of home. For Anne, losers can’t be choosy. She has been through a number of dysfunctional families – all of whom treated her as a servant more than a new relation. She has lived by survival and a can-do attitude.

As Anne, actor Alison Pogoreic demonstrates that she is one of the area’s most talented young thespians. At 14, she has a lovely, trained voice and acting skills to match. Aside from a few wavering moments, she delivers an exceptionally strong performance. She pairs most favorably with a neighbor girl, Diana, played by Kahmila Lay. Diana is a bit less outspoken than Anne, and shyness makes her even more passive. Lay offers an authentic Diana, and it’s clear that these two will become “bosom” friends. Their strong voices intertwine nicely in the song, “Making Up for Lost Time.”

Indeed, friendship is another strong theme throughout the musical. In a small town, everyone must learn to get along. This isn’t Anne’s typical way of doing things; when teased, she is as tempestuous as suggested by her bright red hair.

Director Danette Buikema might have spent more time working with Pogoreic to make her outbursts more believable. Another of the school girls, ditsy and obnoxious Josie, lends a bit of humor as played by Maura Atwood.

The rest of the non-Equity cast complement Anne and her adventures. They include Don Devona as a kind, well-meaning Matthew, Elaine Rewolinski as the demanding Marilla, Mary Atwood as Rachel, the town gossip; and especially Dane Styczynski as Anne’s “academic nemesis” and eventual suitor.

A modest production budget is used very well in creating the look and feel of Prince Edward Island, Canada, where the musical is set. Costumes range from the simple, pared-down dresses that Anne wears to the frillier outfits worn by the other schoolgirls. Sets are simple, yet effective. The lighting is acceptable, but often, the sound is not. The auditorium’s limitations were evident on opening night. Balancing the actors’ voices with a four-piece orchestra proved to be challenging throughout the performance.

Still, Anne of Green Gables is a G-rated treat designed to please young audiences who will probably best relate to Anne’s efforts to fit in, even when she is not always welcomed.