Review: Anastasia the Musical at Crown Perth

Anastasia the Musical at Crown Perth
Thursday, March 5, 2026

Anastasia the Musical: Not the nostalgic fairytale you may expect

Last night’s premiere of Anastasia the Musical at Crown Theatre Perth delivered a production that both honours its beloved animated origins and confidently steps out of the shadow of Disney’s Anastasia. Rather than simply recreating the film on stage—a trap many modern screen-to-stage adaptations fall into—this production offers a thoughtful reinterpretation that stands on its own.

Fans expecting a faithful Disney-style recreation may be surprised. Only five songs from the original film remain, each with small but noticeable lyric revisions. However, those who recall all the lyrics from their childhood VHS will be happy to know the most iconic lines were retained. One of the most effective examples is the reworked “Rumour in St Petersburg,” which cleverly adapts its lyrics to better reflect the political tension and everyday realities of revolutionary Russia.

The musical also makes one of its boldest changes by replacing the film’s supernatural villain, Rasputin, with a far more grounded antagonist—a KGB officer determined to erase the lingering myth of Anastasia Romanov. The shift makes the story more historically plausible, though it does sacrifice some of the cartoonish silliness and comedic villainy that gave the animated film much of its playful energy.

Tonally, the stage version leans darker than its animated predecessor. Moments such as the execution flashbacks add a sobering historical edge that may catch families off guard; parents should note the production may be unsuitable for children under seven.

Where the show truly shines is in its performances. Georgina Hopson and Robert Tripolino, playing Anastasia and Dimitri respectively, deliver outstanding vocals and compelling chemistry, carrying the emotional heart of the story. Their performances anchor the production’s more serious tone and make the romance feel genuinely earned. Rodney Dobson and Aussie stage icon Rhonda Burchmore make the most of their comedic characters Vlad and Countess Lily, demonstrating that seniors deserve love, laughs, and high-kick dance numbers too. Clearly relishing every moment, Burchmore commands the stage with effortless comedic timing. While her voice may have developed a gravelly edge over the years, her acting remains razor-sharp—and she still manages to outshine everyone around her.

Visually, the show is elegant rather than extravagant. The set design is minimal, relying instead on choreography, lighting, video and strong ensemble movement to create atmosphere—a choice that works well and avoids cluttering the stage. The costumes, however, are anything but restrained, beautifully capturing the opulence of the Romanov royals, followed by the austerity of revolutionary Russia and the glamour of 1920s Paris. The stylistic choices throughout hint at the influence of Opera Australia, favouring vocal and theatrical strength over heavy spectacle.

Ultimately, Anastasia the Musical is not the Disneyfied princess retread some might expect. Instead, it offers a mature reinterpretation that nods to childhood memories without pandering to them. In choosing reinvention over replication, Anastasia proves that nostalgia works best when it dares to grow up alongside its audience.

MELISSA MANN

Photos by Jeff Busby