Pacifica shines the light in ‘Anne Frank’

by Katherine Schloss, published in the OC Register April 1, 2015

The cast members of Pacifica High School’s “The Diary of Anne Frank” embody complex and troubled characters and honor them to the highest degree.

Adapted by Wendy Kesselman, “The Diary of Anne Frank” is based on the personal diary of Anne in which she confides her deepest secrets and feelings. Forced to go into hiding during the Holocaust because they are Jewish, the Frank family and a few friends endure months on end in the shadow of death.

Meaningful silences and believable ad libs make for an entirely immersive experience. The cast carries out everyday activities such as reading and playing cards with constant vigor and purpose.

Marisa Shlichtman plays the vivacious Anne. She shows an understanding of the changes her character is going through and is a voice for all that goes unsaid. It becomes clear that she is a caged bird longing for flight as her fidgeting becomes more and more constant. The maturity she gains over the course of the show is refreshing and a constant reminder that it is possible to find hope even in the direst of situations.

Pierre Ekladios is the enduring father Otto Frank. He is the source of strength and reassurance for all that are in the annex, and it can be seen that he genuinely cares for his family. Ekladios memorably closes out the show with a monologue in which he finally lashes out and breaks down.

Paige Bowen plays the melodramatic Mrs. Van Daan with smooth comedic timing. Her snappy comments don’t sit well with the others, but the despair and utter anguish she feels after giving up her most prized possession make her character all the more human.

Jarrett Guthrie is the quirky Peter Van Daan, who realizes he has feelings for Anne. With side glances at her from across the table and the occasional blush, he comes to symbolize raw and confusing adolescence.

Pacifica’s marketing and publicity team entices theatergoers with large posters that relate to little details from the show, such as Anne’s beloved chestnut tree.

Though at times the cast is hard to understand due to poor diction, their superb understanding of the text is reflected in their line delivery.

The cast of “The Diary of Anne Frank” asks audiences to live as Anne would: with meaning and love that knows no intolerance.