A modern fairy tale of memory, identity and hope has taken over the Regent Theatre, as Anastasia the Musical begins its Australian journey right here in Melbourne. Based on the beloved 1997 animated film as well as the legend of Anastasia Romanov (the fourth and youngest daughter of the last Tsar of Russia), this Broadway hit brings grandeur, heart, and just the right amount of magic to the stage.
The story follows Anya, a young woman with no memory of her past, who teams up with two unlikely conmen, Dmitry and Vlad, in 1920s Leningrad. With the two men hoping to use her likeness to Anastasia Romanov, the rumoured surviving member of the royal family, as a ticket out of communist Russia, the trio set out on an adventure to Paris. Pursued by forces trying to keep her Anya’s emerging past buried, their journey leads to a thrilling blend of self-discovery, romance, and danger.
Leading the cast is Georgina Hopson as Anya, who delivers a powerhouse performance that’s equal parts vulnerable and fierce. Her vocals on showstoppers like Journey to the Past and Once Upon a December were spine-tingling, earning some of the biggest applause of the night. Robert Tripolino (Dmitry), Joshua Robson (Gleb) and Rodney Dobson (Vlad) all shine in their respective roles; bringing charm and complexity to their characters. Rhonda Burchmore as Countess Lily brings flair and fabulous comedic timing, while Nancye Hayes is as graceful as ever in the role of the Dowager Empress.
The production doesn’t shy away from spectacle either – beautifully thought out set design and opulent costumes transport audiences from the crumbling halls of St Petersburg to the glittering salons of Paris. One particularly impressive scene involved an escape plot on a moving train, complete with clever projection, and choreography that added energy to an already fast-paced show.
But it’s not just about the visuals. The emotional core of Anastasia is what makes it resonate. Whether it’s a quiet moment between a grandmother and granddaughter, or a rousing ensemble number, the show consistently delivers on heart. Beyond the seven songs carried over from the beloved film, the production includes many more musical numbers that enrich the narrative, deepen characters and their stories, and makes the transition from screen to stage feel natural. Several of these additions are particularly haunting, and are sure to stick around with audience members long after the final curtain.
If the reaction from opening night is anything to go by, Anastasia will be one of the must-see musicals of the summer. It’s running now at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne until 20 February, before heading to Perth and Sydney, so don’t miss your chance to journey into the past. Get your tickets now.
Photo Credit: Jeff Busby