At a recent performance of “The Diary of Anne Frank” at a community theater in Howell, Michigan, an unsettling scene unfolded as a group of masked protesters waved Nazi flags outside the venue. This incident left the performers understandably shaken, as officials noted on Monday.
The protest occurred on Saturday evening outside American Legion Post 141, where the play, based on the poignant diary of Anne Frank, was being presented. The small group, displaying swastika flags, was quickly managed by American Legion staff and requested to leave the property. However, the show’s producers deemed it necessary to inform the audience about the situation during intermission.
Despite the distressing circumstances, the cast displayed remarkable resilience, continuing the performance with professionalism. The Fowlerville Community Theater released a statement acknowledging the emotional impact on the actors, who learned of the protest while remaining in character on stage.
Livingston County Sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of the disturbance shortly after it began. They confirmed that although the masked protesters moved across the street to continue their display, no physical altercations occurred, and the situation was handled without incident.
In response to this act of hate, the Michigan Anti-Defamation League expressed its disgust at the far-right extremists and reaffirmed its support for the community, highlighting that such hatred has no place in Howell Township.
The Fowlerville Community Theater made a poignant connection between the events of the night and the themes explored in their production. They emphasized that “The Diary of Anne Frank” recounts the real experiences of individuals who suffered during the Holocaust, and the presence of hate outside their theater spotlighted the fear many lived through during that dark chapter of history.
Overall, this incident serves as a somber reminder of the ongoing struggle against hatred and intolerance in society. However, it also reflects the strength of communities united against such displays of extremism, standing together to uphold the values of compassion and understanding. The theater’s commitment to telling an important story resonates profoundly, reminding audiences of the past while fostering hope for a future free from hate.