Cast announced for Masquers' musical production, 'Anastasia'
Annual gala also on tap Saturday, Aug. 29, at Soap Lake theater.
SOAP LAKE — Over two dozen actors from across central Washington will appear on stage when the Masquers Theater opens its 2026-27 season this fall with a production of the acclaimed musical, “Anastasia.”
“This dazzling show transports its audience 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,” the Masquers said in an audition call in mid-June.
The upcoming production, which opens Oct. 16, will be directed by Masquers veterans Stacey Bresee and Rachel Bresee. The play features music and lyrics by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens and a book by Terrence McNally.
Adapted from a 1997 feature animation film of the same name, it recounts the legend of the Grand Duchess Anastasia of Russia, who was rumored to have escaped the Bolshevik overthrow of the Royal Imperial family. The play features a young woman named Anya who seeks to trace her past by enlisting the aid of a dashing con man and lovable ex-aristocrat while pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family.
In the Masquers’ production, Emma-Jean Wydur has been cast as Anya. Lead roles also include Ben McLain as Dmitry, Jeremy Hansen as Vlad, Alec Lobe at Gleb, Auti Kirk as Lily, and Christie McLain as the Dowager Empress.
Other cast members include Katherine Heston, Carlee Howard, Nola Kirk, Paige Perkins, Henry Silva, Erin Smithgall, Jessica Stredwick, Grant Te Velde, Clifford Bresee, Kody Campbell, Clark Dalton, Emma Galloway, Michaela Greely, Clara Kirk, Connor Leasher, Kelliann Lusk, Sherry Joski, Darryl Pheasant, Alicia Lynn Lasley Pineda, Justin Thompson, Natalie Vieira, and Leia Watkins.
“The cast comes from many communities inside and outside Grant County, from Nespelem to Ellensburg,” the Masquers noted.
Rehearsals begin later this month. The production will run over four weekends, from Friday, Oct. 16 to Sunday, Nov. 8. Friday performances will start at 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday shows at 2 p.m.
MASQUERS TO KICK OFF SEASON WITH AUG. 29 GALA
The Masquers will kick off their upcoming season will their annual gala event, themed ’80s Prom Night!, on Saturday, Aug. 29, at the Soap Lake theater, 322 E. Main Ave.
“Mark your calendars for a fun night and learn about our upcoming 2026-27 season,” say organizers. “Everyone is invited.”
A social hour is planned at 5:30 p.m., followed by the evening’s program at 6 p.m. Food, beverages, and prizes will be available.
