Lincoln-Way North Students Prepare for Winter Play

"I picked this play because of the dramatic elements," said Lincoln-Way North teacher and winter play sponsor Samantha Korzen. "I think the audience will enjoy seeing something serious, and I believe it will allow the students to show off their talents."

 Anne Frank and Me was written in 2001 by husband and wife Jeff Gottesfeld and Cherie Bennett. It was first presented as a play in 1996 in New York City.

 It tells the story of a teenage girl named Nicole who is more interested in her boyfriend than classroom studies, including an assignment to study the diary of Anne Frank.

 While some of Nicole's classmates understand the severity of circumstances Anne Frank lived, she views it as "ancient history" -- that is until she is involved in a serious accident and wakes up in the year 1942 as a Jewish teenager living in Paris, France.

 "This play is an emotional roller coaster with a great message," said Korzen. "The audience will enjoy laughing at Nicole's innocence and feeling emotional as she assumes and important role in her Jewish family."

 Cast in the drama are Lincoln-Way North students Veronica Dembosz, Gina Quiriconi, Sarah Anderson, Lindsey Shoemaker, Shannon Wolfe, Lauren Vitiritti, Victoria Swierczyna, Emily Ruzevich, Thomas Swierczyna, Tyler Burke, Stephen Forth, Sara Ruzevich, Mike Balcerzak, Eric Garcia, Billy Zeitz, Sydney Johnston and Kristen Greer.

 The assistant director is Kelsey Blank.

 "The actors have been wonderful with their memorizations and getting into their roles," said Korzen.

 Show times are 7 p.m. Jan. 27, 28 and 29 in the Performing Arts Center at Lincoln-Way North High School, 19900 S. Harlem Ave., Frankfort.

Tickets are $5 at the door.