Unveiling the Poignant Tapestry of OTTO FRANK
A Captivating Solo Performance
September 15th & 16th, 2023, 7:30 PM at the Lorraine Boccardo Theater.
Center For The Arts At Kayenta – In the heart of Kayenta’s artistic haven, a profound exploration of human resilience and remembrance is set to grace the stage. The Center for the Arts proudly presents OTTO FRANK, a soul-stirring solo performance by the acclaimed Roger Guenveur Smith. As the Utah premiere of this masterful creation draws near, anticipation is building for an experience that promises to intertwine history, emotion, and artistry in a way that only Smith can deliver.
OTTO FRANK is not just a theatrical piece; it is an immersive journey into the layers of memory and the intricate threads that connect us to the past. Through the skilled portrayal of Roger Guenveur Smith, the enigmatic figure of Otto Frank, father of the renowned diarist Anne Frank, takes center stage. Smith, a seasoned Obie and Peabody Award-winning actor, is known for his thought-provoking and emotionally charged solo performances. His uncanny ability to channel the essence of his characters draws audiences into their world with a captivating intensity.
At the heart of OTTO FRANK lies a tale that transcends time. With a live score composed by the talented Marc Anthony Thompson, the performance takes on a life of its own. Smith’s portrayal delves into Otto Frank’s role as the custodian of his daughter Anne’s memory, a legacy that carries the weight of history and the urgency of the present. Through a meticulous examination of the not-so-distant past, Smith’s performance offers a poignant exploration of themes such as loss, denial, and triumph.
The Utah premiere of OTTO FRANK brings a sense of occasion that is palpable. Audiences are invited to witness the delicate interplay of emotion and artistry as Smith navigates Otto Frank’s journey through the Nazi death camps, survival, and the legacy he preserves. This intimate meditation on the present moment resonates deeply, prompting reflection on the enduring impact of the past on our lives today.
The collaboration between Roger Guenveur Smith and Marc Anthony Thompson has yielded a work of profound resonance. Thompson’s live score weaves seamlessly with Smith’s portrayal, creating a rich tapestry that immerses the audience in the Franks’ tragedy and triumph. This innovative blend of poetic storytelling and sonically driven elements elevates the performance, making it a true testament to the power of artistic collaboration.
As the curtain rises on OTTO FRANK, the Lorraine Boccardo Theater becomes a portal to the past, a conduit through which Otto Frank’s voice reaches out across time to address his daughter, his own experiences, and the world beyond. This transcendent performance beckons theater enthusiasts, history aficionados, and all those who seek an experience that touches the core of human existence.
In a world where remembrance and resilience have never been more relevant, OTTO FRANK stands as a beacon of artistic integrity and emotional profundity. Roger Guenveur Smith’s portrayal ignites a spark that kindles the flames of memory and encourages us to reflect on our shared history. As we approach the premiere of this remarkable production at the Center for the Arts at Kayenta, we eagerly anticipate a theatrical experience that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
OTTO FRANK will grace the stage at the Lorraine Boccardo Theater on September 15th and 16th, 2023, at 7:30 PM. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of an unforgettable journey into the heart of history and humanity.
