Bravo! Saying this year’s recent production of Anastasia was great is an understatement. With the help of both the cast and crew, Downingtown West Music Theatre’s 2023 musical truly made the audience feel like they were in the same time period and place that it was set in. We had the opportunity to sit down with one of the cast members, Alexis Hollinger (’23), who shared her favorite qualities and memories of being a part of such an astonishing production.

WEST SIDE BEAT: What role did you play in the musical?
ALEXIS HOLLINGER: In this year’s production of Anastasia, I got the opportunity to play Little Anastasia. Playing such an influential role helped me really piece the story together and relate to it on a whole different level.

WSB: Who inspires you the most when you are performing?
AH: The person who inspires me the most is none other than “Anastasia” herself, Ilse von Heimburg (’23). She is not only my role model but my best friend. I do not know what I would do without her by my side.

WSB: What are your plans after high school?
AH: After high school, I plan to attend the University of Delaware and major in marine science!

WSB: What was your favorite musical you were a part of?
AH: My favorite musical that I was a part of has to be Mamma Mia! Even though we performed this during the depths of COVID-19, it did not affect the story and we were still able to put on a show!

WSB: What was your favorite song from Anastasia?
AH: My favorite song from Anastasia would hands-down have to be “Once Upon a December.”