Play Review: ‘Anne of Green Gables: The Musical’

NUOVA Vocal Arts’ latest production, Anne of Green Gables: The Musical, is a nostalgic, heartfelt show that highlights the artistic efforts of its company. NUOVA is a local non-profit organization that casts both students and professional actors in their shows, allowing different generations of artists to come together and create magic on stage. Anne of Green Gables allowed them to spotlight the talents of the breadth of their cast members while bringing joy to the hearts of their audience.

Overall, the performances were wonderful. The production chose to double cast the lead characters. Anne, Diane, Gilbert, and Josie were portrayed by younger actors in the first half. In the second half, an older actor took over the role. Both portrayals of Anne, played by Clara Knoefel and Danica Purnell, were brilliant. It can sometimes be difficult when portraying such an iconic character on stage. The actor has to strike the perfect balance between living up to the audience’s preconceived expectations while also bringing something of their own to the production. Knoefel and Purnell both skillfully managed this balancing act with grace and cheer. Knoefel captured Anne’s feisty, stubborn spirit that so characterizes her first few years at Green Gables. Purnell maintained Anne’s spunk while also navigating her growth into a smart, confident young woman. There were moments where I almost felt as though Megan Follows herself was on stage. 

The supporting performances were a delight as well. Cheryl Jameson brought strength and compassion to Marilla’s character. Jason Duiker made some questionable accent choices as Matthew, but I completely forgot about them as soon as he opened his mouth to sing. Maxwell Vesely was a standout as the second act Gilbert Blythe. He brought beautiful vocals and a charming, nuanced portrayal that played beautifully across from Purnell’s Anne. 

The musical itself does not have the strongest script. As a lifelong fan of Anne, I feel the story is strong enough to stand on its own. The addition of showtunes is not really necessary, and at times the numbers can feel redundant or worse, musically uninteresting. How long does a song about making ice cream need to be? If you’re someone who loves Anne of Green Gables, it is fun to see such a beloved story come to life. But, if it is your first time entering Avonlea, maybe save yourself some money and just read the book. 

That said, the bright ensemble does a wonderful job of bringing life to the characters. The production is drenched in nostalgia and cheer, and I generally had a great time.