A Night to Remember
On the evening of May 11, 2024, the Sri Ram Centre for Art and Culture in Mandi House came alive with anticipation. The air was thick with excitement as the audience settled into their seats, eager to witness a theatrical masterpiece—the world-renowned play, “The Diary of Anne Frank.” But this performance was more than just a play; it was a collaboration fueled by purpose, passion, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The Collaborators
Dianalds New Era Care Foundation (DNECF) and Platform for Action in Creative Theatre (PACT) joined hands to bring Anne Frank’s haunting story to life. Under the capable direction of Mrs. Gouri Nilakantan, our diverse cast embarked on a journey that transcended language, age, and experience.
The Cast
Let me introduce you to the remarkable individuals who breathed life into this production:
Ms. Narayani Kumar: Her portrayal of Anne Frank was both vulnerable and fierce—a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Ms. Shiuli Ghosh: As Margot Frank, she captured the quiet strength of Anne’s sister, navigating the hidden confines of the Secret Annex.
Mr. Donald John Oommen (that’s me!): Stepping into the shoes of Mr. Otto Frank, I felt the weight of history. Three days’ notice was all I had, but I embraced the challenge, proving that age and language need not be barriers in art.
Mrs. Gouri Nilakantan: Our director, who also took on the role of Edith Frank, Anne’s mother, with a performance that was both powerful and moving
Mr. Rajguru Mohan: As Mr. Van Daan, he portrayed the complexities of life in hiding with grace.
Mrs. Niyomi Dey: Her portrayal of Mrs. Van Daan was poignant and heartfelt.
Mr. Vasu Paliwal: As Peter van Daan, he brought a sense of youthful hope and conflict to the stage.
Mrs. Alka Bhavana: A first-timer on stage, Alka’s courage and dedication were inspiring. She played the role of Miep, the brave soul who risked her life to support those in hiding.
Mr. Vivaan: Breaking free from his comfort zone, Vivaan delivered a powerful performance as Mr. Dussel, the dentist seeking refuge.
Prayers for Unity
Before the performance, a moment of interfaith solidarity was observed. Mr. Reuben Israeli, a renowned Bollywood and theatre personality, offered a proper Jewish Shalom prayer.
Mrs. Gouri Nilakantan recited a Sanskrit prayer, invoking peace and wisdom. Sr. Ligy Payapilly, the Ukrainian war hero, followed with a heartfelt Christian prayer, after which Mr. Arieb Azhar, a Pakistani Coke Studio artist, offered an Islamic prayer. In that moment, faiths converged, and we stood together—actors, audience, and guests—bound by Anne’s legacy.
A Critique from a Visitor of the Secret Annex
Among the audience was a visitor who had experienced the reality of Anne Frank’s Secret Annex. Their critique was not only positive but deeply personal. They remarked on the authenticity of our portrayal and the emotional depth we reached, connecting the past with the present in a profound way.
The Critics and the Audience
The theater was almost full—a testament to the enduring power of Anne Frank’s story. The critics praised our ensemble, recognizing the depth of emotion we brought to the stage. But it was the audience’s reactions that truly mattered. Tears flowed freely, and hearts connected across cultural divides. In that darkened hall, we were one—a microcosm of the world Anne dreamed of.
The Message
“The Diary of Anne Frank” isn’t just a historical account; it’s a mirror reflecting our present. Anne’s words remind us that even in the darkest times, kindness, compassion, and hope can thrive. As CTO of DNECF, I believe our collaboration with PACT exemplifies this message. We strive for a world where every voice is heard, where barriers crumble, and where unity prevails.
So, let us carry Anne’s legacy forward. Let us continue to break new bounds, reverse traditions, and create art that transcends language and age. Together, we can build a more compassionate world—one curtain call at a time.
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