La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts closes its remarkable 2025–26 season on a high note with Anastasia, delivering a production that captures the heart, spectacle, and emotion that made the beloved animated film a classic. Beautifully staged and filled with outstanding performances from top to bottom, this is a fitting finale to one of the theater’s strongest seasons in recent memory.

From the moment the curtain rises, Anastasia sweeps audiences into a journey spanning Imperial Russia to the streets of 1920s Paris. The cast shines across the board, with each performer bringing warmth, charisma, and sincerity to their roles. The chemistry between the leads feels natural, while the supporting cast adds humor, heart, and depth throughout. There isn’t a weak performance in the company, it’s truly talent from left to right.

Fans of the 1997 animated film will be pleased to find that this production honors the source material while embracing the grandeur of live theater. In many ways, this adaptation feels every bit as magical as the film itself, thanks to its soaring performances, emotional storytelling, and unforgettable musical numbers like “Once Upon a December” and “Journey to the Past”.

Visually, the production relies heavily on digital scenic projections rather than large physical sets. While some theatergoers may prefer more traditional scenic design, the projections prove to be an effective storytelling device. Given how frequently the story moves between locations, from palaces and train stations to bustling Parisian streets, the screen-based scenery allows the production to transition seamlessly without slowing the pace. Rather than feeling like a shortcut, it becomes a practical solution that supports the show’s globe-spanning adventure.

Among the production’s most memorable moments is the beautifully staged train sequence, which creates a genuine sense of movement and adventure. It’s one of the evening’s most magical theatrical effects and demonstrates how creative staging can transform a simple concept into something captivating.

The emotional high point, however, comes at the end of Act One with “Journey to the Past.” As the song most audiences instantly recognize from the animated film, it lands with breathtaking impact. The staging, lighting, orchestration, and heartfelt performance combine to create a showstopping moment that earns every bit of its applause. It’s the kind of theatrical moment that reminds audiences why this musical has become so beloved. Lena Ceja who played Anya/Grand Duchess Anastasia was made for the role. Her Anya is balanced with humor, emotional and understanding. Under Parker Esse’s direction and choreography, with Ryan O’Connell’s rich musical direction, Anastasia balances spectacle with intimacy, creating a production that feels both grand and deeply personal.

La Mirada Theatre has enjoyed an exceptional season, and Anastasia is exactly the kind of crowd-pleasing, emotionally satisfying production worthy of closing it out. Whether you’re revisiting the story you grew up with or experiencing it for the first time, this beautiful production offers romance, adventure, nostalgia, and theatrical magic that will leave audiences smiling long after the final curtain. Get your tickets today!