GILBERT, AZ – July 10, 2025 – Hale Centre Theatre Arizona is thrilled to announce the first musical production of their 2025-2026 Season: Anastasia the Broadway Musical, opening on August 22 at Hale Centre Theatre Arizona (located at 50 West Page Avenue, Gilbert, AZ 85233). From the Tony Award-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, be transported from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the excitement of 1920s Paris, as Anya, a brave young woman, sets out to discover her mysterious past. As she is pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a con man & lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love & family.

Under the direction of Cambrian James, with music direction from Dr. Cathy Hauan, Anastasia features a lush score and lyrics by Stephan Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens. The book is by Terrence McNally (Tony Award Winner and Drama Desk Award Winner). 

Brie Wadsworth-Gates who plays the leading role of Anastasia said:

"The Anastasia costumes have always been my favorite. The rich tones, the flowing fabrics, the beautiful silhouettes— your eyes almost can’t take it all in! Audiences will see every single piece and every beaming face on that stage. So many hands and hours have been poured into this beautiful show and there’s just so much magic to enjoy.  I simply cannot wait to share this production with the world. All I hope for is that someone, somewhere, will be inspired by this story. I know it has the power to make a difference in your life as it already has in mine, and for that reason I can’t wait to see you there."

Reece Harris who plays Dmitry said:

"I'm just one of the millions of people that grew up on the animated movie that it's based on, and many of the people that I talk to about this show have such fond memories of that movie. So while I am a little intimidated, I am excited to be sharing in everyone's reliving of those memories. And I hope that that collective nostalgia is what audiences can latch onto and take with them as they leave the theatre night after night."

Hale Centre Theatre Arizona's production stars Brie Wadsworth-Gates as the lost princess Anastasia, with Reece Harris as the con-man Dmitry, Rob Stuart as the lovable ex-aristocrat, Vladimir “Vlad” Popov, and Zac Bushman as the soviet officer, Gleb Vaganov. The cast also features Kathleen Sasnett as the Dowager Empress, Michelle Barton as Countess Lily, and Loretta Hale and Evenly Neal sharing the role of Young Anya and Alexei. 

The creative team includes scenic design by McKenna Carpenter, costume design by Brielle Hawkes, lighting design by Ashton Corey, and sound design by Adam Chagnon.

Tickets for Anastasia are available now through www.HaleTheatreArizona.com. Group sales information can be found by calling the Box Office at (480) 497-1181.

For more information, please visit www.HaleTheatreArizona.com.

About Hale Centre Theatre Arizona:

Located in the heart of vibrant downtown Gilbert, Hale Centre Theatre - Arizona is a professional 350-seat theater-in-the-round. For over 20 years, we've been captivating audiences with top talent in family-friendly Broadway plays and musicals, including hilarious comedies and show-stopping musicals. And new this year, we’ve added our brand new concert hall which  features top performers from across the country paying tribute to some of your favorite artists. With over 30 top-rated local restaurants within walking distance and free parking, Hale Centre Theatre offers an unforgettable evening out!

MEDIA CONTACT:

Caitlyn McKell - Design & Marketing Specialist 

caitlyn.mckell@haletheatrearizona.com

(661) 965-0608

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