CCS Theatre Presents Anastasia

The Chattanooga Christian School (CCS) Theatre will bring history, mystery, and music to the stage this March with its production of Anastasia, a sweeping musical inspired by the beloved animated film and the enduring legend of the Romanov family.

The production will take place in the CCS Fine Arts Center, showcasing the talent and dedication of student performers, musicians, and technical theatre students.

A Musical Journey from Russia to Paris

Set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution, Anastasia follows the journey of Anya, a young woman determined to discover her past. Believing her story may lead her to Paris, Anya sets out alongside two unlikely companions, Dmitry, a clever conman, and Vlad Popov, an ex-aristocrat—who hope to pass her off as the lost Princess Anastasia to the Dowager Empress Marie.

As the trio travels across Europe with a determined Soviet officer close behind, Anya must confront her past while discovering where she truly belongs.

Featuring memorable songs such as “Journey to the Past” and “Once Upon a December,” the musical blends powerful storytelling with dynamic choreography and rich musical numbers.

Why CCS Chose Anastasia

The choice to produce Anastasia carries personal meaning for the director Mary Catherine Schimpf, who has led the theatre program at CCS for more than two decades.

“This was one of my favorite movies as a child,” Schimpf said. “I always found the story and surrounding Romanov lore very intriguing. The music is some of the best in musical theatre.”

Schimpf noted that the score was written by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, the acclaimed songwriting duo behind Broadway productions such as Ragtime and Shrek the Musical.

“It has been a challenge to try a new show with so many complicated features, a moving train, among other things,” she said. “But it checks so many boxes for me: great music, opportunities for choreography, and a story that is as dramatic as it is comedic.”

A Story About Identity and Belonging

While Anastasia offers historical intrigue and theatrical spectacle, Schimpf believes the heart of the story resonates on a deeper level.

“This story is primarily about identity and belonging,” she said. “As the characters search for who they are, they must face their past, determine who they are in relationship to their family, and learn to trust again.”

For CCS audiences, the themes of belonging, identity, and redemption reflect universal questions that connect deeply with viewers of all ages.

“The cool thing about storytelling through theatre is that each audience member has the opportunity to view their own story and situation through the lens of the characters on stage,” Schimpf said. “These are universal longings we all have, to belong and to understand.”

Creating a World on Stage

Producing Anastasia requires a dynamic stage environment that transports audiences across Russia and Europe. The CCS theatre production includes ambitious scenic elements, creative staging, and immersive design to help audiences experience the story’s shifting locations.

“We are always looking for creative solutions to use our stage space in a way that best serves the story,” Schimpf said. “The script requires that we move to many locations very swiftly, which is aided by the scenic design.”

The goal is simple: bring the story to life.

“We hope the audience is drawn into the world by the scenery rather than being distracted by it.”

CCS Students Perform at a Professional Level

The Chattanooga Christian School Theatre is known for its high standards and strong commitment from student performers.

“Theatre students at CCS work like professionals,” Schimpf said. “Many of them supplement their work on stage with additional training, and our team of teachers supports them with dance and voice instruction to prepare them for their roles.”

From choreography and vocals to set construction and stage management, CCS students collaborate across disciplines to produce a full-scale musical theatre experience.

Moments Audiences Won’t Want to Miss

Schimpf says audiences can expect powerful performances and visually striking scenes throughout the show.

“This show is powerful and beautiful,” she said. “I cannot wait to show everyone what we’ve done with the design, as it supports some real powerhouse solo numbers and incredible dances.”

Schimpf adds that one of the most exciting moments in the production is a theatrical centerpiece.

“The part I’m most excited about is when the characters attend the ballet Swan Lake,” she said. “This is the ultimate show-within-a-show—an actual ballet in the middle of a musical.”

Celebrating CCS Senior Performers

This year’s production will also mark a final CCS performance for several seniors who have been deeply involved in the theatre program, including RC Moore, Neely DeLoach, Hadley Groer, and Trent Guess.

Their performances in Anastasia celebrate years of dedication and growth in the CCS theatre program. 

Performance Dates & Times

The CCS Theatre will present Anastasia in the Fine Arts Center (FAC) on campus during the following dates and times. 

• Thursday, March 12, 2026 | 7:00 PM

• Friday, March 13, 2026 | 7:00 PM

• Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 1:00 PM & 7:00 PM

• Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 7:00 PM

• Friday, March 20, 2026 | 7:00 PM

• Saturday, March 21, 2026 | 1:00 PM & 7:00 PM

 

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Tickets

Tickets are available online through the CCS Fine Arts Department or at the door (credit/debit only). Families, students, and Chattanooga community members are encouraged to attend this ambitious CCS Theatre production.

 

*Please note, in keeping with the historical setting of Anastasia, the production includes brief scenes involving stage weapons and characters portraying the use of alcohol.