Copyright Variety
“Slam Frank,” a provocative new musical that reimagines Anne Frank’s story to satirize progressive politics and media, is extending through the end of 2025. The off-Broadway show, which has courted controversy with its depiction of the Holocaust survivor as a pansexual Latina named Anita Franco, has been a box office hit for Asylum NYC. Initially announced for a three-week run, it is now adding its fourth month of performances up to Dec. 28. “We’ve never seen a reaction like this night after night, it’s exactly why Asylum NYC will always support brave new theatre.,” said Bob Melley, partner at Asylum NYC. The production has faced criticism from certain sectors who believe it is insensitive, but it has been embraced by critics — with former New York Times reviewer Ben Brantley praising it on social media as “the most important show around.” “Slam Frank” is about a progressive community theater company that decides to transform Anne Frank’s story into an intersectional, multiethnic, genderqueer, Afro-Latin hip-hop musical. Creator and composer Andrew Fox conceived the show with Joel Sinensky. It is directed by Sam LaFrage. The cast features Olivia Bernábe as Anita (Anne), Andrew Fox as Mr. Van Daan, Alex Lewis as Peter, Anya van Hoogstraten as Margot, Austen Horne as Edith, Rocky Paterra as Otto, Jaz Zepatos as Mrs. Van Daan and Walker Stovall as the Assistant Stage Manager. Covering the company are Kris Bramson, Peter Kendall and Crystal Stewart. The creative team includes associate director Emily Abrams, music director Alex Harrington, choreographer Nico DeJesus, assistant choreographer Arianne Meneses, costume designer Sarah Lockwood, set and props designer CJ Howard, lighting and live video streaming designer Zach Lobel and projections designer Nicholas Ferrari. Nikita Chernin serves as production stage manager. Marketing and publicity was done by Katie Rosin, Kampfire. The band features Mike Pettry (keyboards/guitar), Jared Decker (percussion) and Joseph Wallace (bass). The show is produced by Steven Brandon, Andrew Fox, Seth Greenleaf, Alex Lewis, Joel Sinensky and Stage Time.
