Anastasia, a popular movie from the 1950s and animated musical done in 1997, has inspired a Broadway hit and which has stopped in Chicago for a limited two week run (March 26 - April 7) at Broadway in Chicago's Nederlander Theatre.
From the Tony Award®-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, ANASTASIA is a dazzling new show that transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love, and family.
Making her professional debut as Little Anastasia is Victoria Amelia Bingham, age 8 from Ogden, UT and she is sharing with us what it is like to be young and on tour with a Broadway show.
Q: At what age did you begin performing?
A: I performed in my first musical at the age of 3, but Anastasia is my first professional job.
Q: Aside from the role of "Little Anastasia" what has been one of your favorite roles to play and why?
A: I played Gretl in the Sound of Music, and it was awesome! For me, the best part about being in theater is the family I get. The Sound of Music has all the kids, and we became just like a family. I was the youngest, obviously, so they all took care of me and played with me. I had a blast!
Q: Do you have a favorite line or song from your character in Anastasia?
A: I love "Once upon a December" because I get to sing it with my Nana in the show, and she's the best!!!
Q: What is a typical day for you like while touring?
A: I try to sleep in as much as possible because I usually don't get to sleep until pretty late, and I'm a bear without my sleep! School starts around 11 or 12, so we head over to the theater for school, which is about 3-4 hours. We have a tutor who travels with us and helps us with school. Then we have a few hours before the show, which is when I eat dinner, work on my voice and stretch (dance classes are hard to find on the road), play with toys or maybe visit a local park, and rest. Then it's time to head back to the theater for the show!
Q: Which cities are you most excited to visit while on tour?
A: Nashville, because I have some friends visiting there and we're going to do all the touristy things! And Chicago because we have friends there who we are meeting up with. I can't wait to catch up and have them show us the best places to visit!
Q: What are you looking forward to doing in your downtime while in Chicago?
A: Well I'm on spring break the second week here, so I can't wait to wake up late, play with my sister (who travels with me right now), and visit some sights in Chicago. I would love to find a place to go swimming!
Q: Which show would you love to perform in one day?
A: Wicked, it's my favorite musical ever!!!
Q: Do you prefer singing, dancing or acting?
A: Oh, that's a hard one! But I love love love to sing!!! I spend TONS of time with my headphones on jamming out to Wicked!
If you have been looking for a show to share with your family, then Anastasia is a great story with plenty of romance and adventure to keep you entertained! You can visit https://www.broadwayinchicago.com/show/anastasia/ for more information about the show, tickets and digital lottery.
