Anne Frank wrote that she wanted to go on living even after she died. She dreamed of, one day, becoming a journalist and rejoiced in her ability to express herself in writing. Words written in her diary tell the story of a girl filled with hope in spite of her terrifying circumstances: “How wonderful it is that no one has to wait, but can start right now to gradually change the world! How wonderful it is that everyone, great and small, can immediately help bring about justice by giving of themselves!”
Frank’s dream was realized through her diary and account of a 13-year-old Jewish girl living in hiding from the Nazis in Amsterdam. Others wrote plays and stories commemorating her life.
James Whitbourn wrote the modern choral work “Annelies.” Written in 14 movements, the piece documents her life and bows reverentially to all lives lost in the Holocaust.
Pilgrim Festival Chorus is tackling this powerful work, and will be performing it next month. Here is everything you need to know to enjoy this intense and passionate music that honors Frank.
WHAT
Pilgrim Festival Chorus will perform “Annelies,” a modern choral work penned by James Whitbourn. The chorus will explore the mind and heart of the lively 13-year-old girl who, after living in hiding for 25 months in Amsterdam, was found out and, along with the rest of her family, imprisoned and killed in a concentration camp. A pre-concert talk will be presented by The Anne Frank Center USA’s School Programs Manager Beth Slepian who will discuss Frank’s history, family, diary and legacy. Music Director William B. Richter with conduct the concert, which features a soprano soloist, accompanied by a chamber ensemble of piano, clarinet, violin and cello.
WHEN
Pilgrim Festival Chorus will perform “Annelies” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 11, and at 4 p.m. Sunday, April 12, just days before Holocaust Remembrance Day April 16.
WHERE
“Annelies” will be performed at The Church of the Pilgrimage at 8 Town Square in Plymouth.
HOW
Tickets cost $20 for adults, $18 for senior citizens, $15 for students over 14, with children under the age of 14 admitted free. Advance tickets can be purchased online at pilgrimfestivalchorus.org and from PFC members. To reserve tickets call Gail at 781-826-8416. Complimentary refreshments will be served in the church hall immediately following the performance. For more information on the concert or PFC visit pilgrimfestivalchorus.org, or follow Pilgrim Festival Chorus on Facebook.
Follow Emily Clark on Twitter @emilyOCM.
