As graduation quickly approaches for the class of 2026, seniors are assembling their final capstones, project, and showcases. For senior Theatre and English major Camille Beeson, a senior project means starring in an immersive production that blends music, theater, and history. “From The Diary of Anne Frank” combines The Concordia Sinfonietta ensemble, the music direction of Jeff Held, Assistant Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, and soloists Elizabeth Johnson (violin), Emma Whitten (organ), Yue Tang (cello) and Rebekah Michel (soprano) with Beeson’s creative storytelling to tell the familiar story of Anne Frank in a new artistic way. 

The inspiration for this project reaches back to Beeson’s high school theater experiences. “I was actually approached by Dr. Held in December of 2024 and asked if I would be interested in doing this piece. I was so honored to be considered. Back in high school, I did a production of ‘The Hiding Place,’ which is based on the life of Corrie and Betsie ten Boom,” said Beeson. “Betsie ten Boom said, “There is no pit so deep that God is not deeper still.” Her words have always stuck with me. This is why it is so important to tell stories of horrific darkness, because it is in the darkest depths that we most profoundly experience the love and grace of God,” said Beeson.

When tasked with portraying a recognizable historical figure, such as Anne Frank, Beeson conducted extensive research to effectively convey the message. “I have read not only Anne’s diary but many other works written by authors of the time period, reimagining of Anne’s life, and modern research done regarding the mystery of their capture. Last semester, I had the chance to meet a Holocaust survivor, which was profoundly influential and informative. I have also traveled up to L.A. twice to visit the Museum of Tolerance, and learn from the Anne Frank exhibit there,” said Beeson. 

However, her dedicated research did not end there. The next challenge became how to best honor Anne’s life. 

“After establishing a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the facts of her life and the time, I began to develop the philosophy of my approach, which I wrote out in a paper looking at literary theory criticism, determining how to best honor Anne’s character, and present her to an audience. Then I approached her as an actress. I dove deep into her words and began doing my own journaling and clarifying the choices of my approach,” said Beeson. 

The acting performance is only one of the elements that Beeson has had to juggle for this project. The performance includes a full orchestration by the Concordia Sinfonietta ensemble under the direction of Held. “The Concordia Symphony Orchestra is an incredibly dedicated community that is working so hard to master this extremely challenging piece of music. I have never seen a score with so much mixed meter. We have all wrestled together to clarify timing and pitch, in order to tell her story as truthfully as possible,” said Beeson. 

While this is her senior project for her degree, “From The Diary of Anne Frank” holds a deeper meaning to Beeson’s philosophy as an actress and student. “Through my time at Concordia, I have clarified my artistic mission statement. I am a holistic storyteller, called to engage in the arts for the purpose of revealing more truth to the world.,” said Beeson. She added, “But while we were 'dead in our sin,' God saved us. I feel so honored that my time at Concordia culminates with providing people an opportunity to wrestle with darkness through the childlike wonder and yearning for light. Anne’s hope inspires me, and I pray that through my embodiment of her, others would be encouraged, too.” 

When asked what audiences should expect, Beeson added, “Audiences can expect to be faced with the gravity of darkness in our world. I pray that in this discomfort, audiences would seek Christ as their refuge. That they would know 'there is no pit so deep that God is not deeper still’ [Betsie ten Boom].” 

“From The Diary of Anne Frank” will be presented at Zhang Hall in the Borland Manske Center on Feb. 5, Feb. 6, and Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. Note that due to the room's small size, seating is limited, and tickets should be reserved well in advance. Additionally, ticketing includes general admission seating alongside premium seating for preferred sections. There will be no late seating. Please arrive 15 minutes before the 7 p.m. performance. For tickets or more information, please visit https://www.simpletix.com/e/from-the-diary-of-anne-frank-tickets-232994 .

Tags: Performing Arts

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About Rebekah Michel

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