The Diary of Anne Frank (Audition & Feedback Fee)

The Diary of Anne Frank (Audition & Feedback Fee)

Grades 8-12 (*Audition Required*)

Step into one of the most powerful and important stories ever brought to the stage.

Based on the real-life diary of Anne Frank, this moving play follows Anne, her family, and four others as they hide from Nazi persecution in a secret annex in Amsterdam during World War II. Through moments of humor, hope, fear, and resilience, Anne's story reminds us of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of standing up against hatred and injustice. This audition-based production is designed for dedicated young performers who are eager to challenge themselves artistically while engaging deeply with the historical and human themes of the play. In addition to rehearsing and performing, participants will explore the historical context of the Holocaust, examine the experiences of those impacted by it, and consider the ongoing importance of empathy, inclusion, and civic responsibility.

More than a performance opportunity, The Diary of Anne Frank is an opportunity for young artists to use theater as a tool for education, reflection, and meaningful community engagement.

Production Information

• Family Information Meeting: October 12, 2026
• Auditions: November 15, 2026
• Rehearsals Begin: November 29, 2026
• Performances: February 4–6, 2027

Rehearsals

• Sundays, 5–7pm
• Tuesdays, Thursdays, 6–8pm
• Rehearsals begin 11/29 

Audition Experience Fee

A $25 Audition Experience Fee is required at registration.

Participants will take part in a professional-style audition process and receive personalized feedback from the artistic team designed to support their growth as performers. Because every participant receives this educational experience, the audition fee is non-refundable regardless of casting outcome.

Tuition & Acceptance

The Diary of Anne Frank is an audition-based production with a limited cast size. Students who are offered a role will be required to pay tuition of $600 prior to the first rehearsal in order to accept their place in the cast.

School-Day Educational Performances

As part of ACT's commitment to arts education and community engagement, this production will include school-day performances for student audiences. All cast members should expect to miss either one full school day or two partial school days in order to participate in these educational performances. Specific dates and schedules will be communicated well in advance, and ACT will provide documentation to support school absences when needed.

Families should carefully consider this commitment before accepting a role in the production.

Educational Engagement & Audience Talkbacks

The Diary of Anne Frank is more than a performance opportunity; it is an opportunity to contribute to meaningful community dialogue.

In addition to performing in the production, cast members will participate in post-show discussions and educational talkbacks with audience members, including student groups attending school-day performances. Through these conversations, performers will have the opportunity to reflect on the themes and historical context of the play, share insights from the rehearsal process, and help audiences engage more deeply with the story.

Students will be prepared and supported throughout this process by the artistic team and will receive training and guidance on facilitating thoughtful, age-appropriate conversations. Cast members should be excited not only to perform, but also to serve as ambassadors for the production and active participants in its educational impact.

Content & Themes

The Diary of Anne Frank tells the true story of Anne Frank and the families who hid from Nazi persecution during World War II. The production explores themes of prejudice, discrimination, identity, resilience, hope, and the consequences of hatred.

While the play is appropriate for young performers and audiences, it addresses difficult historical events including antisemitism, war, and the Holocaust. Families are encouraged to consider whether the material is a good fit for their student.