Auditions - THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK
"One room. Two years. A lifetime of spirit."
In this powerful and deeply moving adaptation by Wendy Kesselman, The Diary of Anne Frank brings to life the unforgettable true story of a young girl whose voice continues to inspire generations.
Set in war-torn Amsterdam during the Nazi occupation, the play follows Anne Frank, a spirited and insightful Jewish teenager, as she and her family go into hiding in a secret annex above her father’s office. For over two years, Anne documents the fear, hope, love, and courage that define their days in confinement. Through her diary, we witness not only the unimaginable hardships of persecution but also the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Kesselman’s adaptation enriches the original play by incorporating newly discovered writings from Anne’s diary and survivor accounts, offering a more intimate, authentic, and contemporary portrait of Anne and the world around her.
A timeless reminder of resilience, compassion, and the cost of intolerance, The Diary of Anne Frank is both a poignant history lesson and a celebration of the enduring power of hope.
Adapted by Wendy Kesselman
Directed by Jennifer Savill
Audition date: Saturday 21 November 2026, 1 - 3pm
No. of performances: 7
Performance dates: Monday 08 - Saturday 13 March 2027 (incl. Sat matinee)
Guide Bridge Theatre auditions are open to all. Whilst you can simply turn up for the auditions it would be helpful if you register that you are planning to audition for a play, and indicate which part(s) you are interested in. hello@gbtheatre.co.uk
Please note
All actors offered a part in a GBT production must become an Active Member or Junior Friend (linked to an Active Member or Friend of Guide Bridge Theatre) within 14 days of being cast. For more information see our Membership page.
CHARACTERS
Anne Frank (Female, 13–15): The central protagonist, now portrayed with more raw intensity, wit, and introspection. She is a spirited, intelligent, and determined young girl whose writing serves as an escape. Kesselman’s version highlights her maturation from a talkative child to a thoughtful, desperate teenager facing the "increasing horror" of her time.
Otto Frank (Male, 50s): Anne’s calm, intellectual, and patient father. He is the anchor of the Secret Annex, providing comfort and stability to all residents, particularly to a devastated Anne in the final scenes.
Edith Frank (Female, 40s): Anne’s reserved and proper mother. She struggles with the confinement and with her strained, distant relationship with Anne, often wishing she were more like Margot.
Margot Frank (Female, 16–18): Anne’s quiet, reserved, and obedient older sister. She is studious and frail, acting as a foil to Anne’s outgoing personality.
Petronella Van Daan (Female, 40s): A vain, finicky, and often dramatic woman who brings personal items (like a fur coat) into hiding, causing conflict. She is frequently loud and critical.
Putti (Hermann) Van Daan (Male, 40s): An irritable, selfish man who often argues with his wife and the others, particularly over food. He is a former business partner of Otto Frank.
Peter Van Daan (Male, 16–18): The shy, awkward son of the Van Daans. He matures from a withdrawn youth into a supportive friend - and love interest - for Anne.
Jan Dussel (Male, 50s): A fussy, anxious dentist who joins the group later. He is often portrayed as slightly comedic but also frustrating to live with in close quarters.
Miep Gies (Female, 20s–30s): A brave Dutch woman who risks her life to help hide the occupants, providing food and supplies.
Mr. Kraler (Male, 40s): The owner of the business who helps hide the group, acting as a link to the outside world.
3 men - There are three Nazi soldiers who appear at the very end of the play. They do not have any lines except for some short commands in German, but it is their appearance in the play that changes the course of everything for the “attic family”