Arts & Culture
“Anne of Green Gables - The Musical” is on at Gateway Theatre through Dec. 31.
Photo by Ross Denotter
Gateway’s ‘Anne of Green Gables’ spins a musical tale
By Hannah Scott
Published 12:02 PST, Mon December 19, 2022
Last Updated: 3:53 PST, Fri January 6, 2023
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Gateway Theatre’s holiday show, Anne of Green Gables - The Musical, transports viewers to the fictional town of Avonlea, Prince Edward Island, and tells the story of lovable and headstrong Anne Shirley.
Kyra Leroux very successfully embodies Anne’s energy and spirit, while small costume details—like one sock being pulled up higher than the other—add to Anne’s strong characterization.
“Red hair and freckles have been my lifelong sorrow,” she declares early on in the show, capturing Anne’s childlike wonder and consternation.
Playing Anne’s guardians, Anthony Santiago and Katey Wright also offer standout performances, demonstrating the juxtaposition between Matthew’s warmheartedness and Marilla’s stern affection. In particular, Wright’s portrayal of grief in Act Two was poignant and moving.
A number of actors do double duty, performing in the cast and as musicians; at times, this can result in some awkward transitions as actors dart from the band area to the front of the stage during busier scenes. It also emphasizes the small town feeling of Avonlea.
And while Jessica Oostergo’s set—with a fully functional loft bedroom—was an effective use of the space, the story’s iconic green gables were understated enough to disappear amid the other staging elements.
Some familiar moments from the novel, like the scenes with raspberry cordial and a hair dye mishap, came to life vividly. And audience members of all ages gasped when Anne broke her classroom slate over the head of Gilbert Blythe (played by a spirited Angus Yam).
The pacing of Act One was effective; its final scene, which takes place at a church picnic, was especially fun and energetic, with some inventive choreography to create the impression of movement. In comparison, the pacing of Act Two dragged a little, and the passage of time was not always clear—particularly given that the novel, which is the musical’s source material, covers about five years in Anne’s life.
The dance numbers, along with plenty of playful childlike spirit, will thrill younger children, while the familiarity of the story will engage older viewers. The cheerful and clever music adds to the joy of the story.
Anne of Green Gables - The Musical is on at Gateway Theatre through Dec. 31, with tickets starting at $35. For more information, visit gatewaytheatre.com/anne.
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