Shiva for Anne Frank

“Shiva for Anna Frank” is a piece both long-overdue and distressingly relevant. It’s is insightful, passionate, funny, and educational. Rachel Steele’s take on such a monumental event as the holocaust and portraying such an important person as Anne Frank is no easy endeavor. It’s undeniable that it would take more than a bit of ‘hutzpah’ to attempt such a feat; I believe Rachel proves to have not only attempted but successfully created a piece that both showcases her passion, the extensive research, and her years as a stand up comedian in NYC and brings a new light to Anne Frank’s life and impact on the world. The idea of portraying Anne Frank in a comedy show may make some feel a bit uncomfortable, but Rachel proves engaging, reverent, ... full review

I saw a dress rehearsal of Shiva for Anne Frank earlier this month. Rachel McKay Steele’s one-woman show handled the rare feat of being hilarious….and deeply moving. McKay Steele takes scenes from her own life and weaves them in with a few protests. The chief grievance is that Diary of Anne Frank is not taken seriously as literature by many, all because it was written by a teenage girl. The performance asks the audience to take in a full view of McKay Steele’s character, as well as Anne Frank’s. We’re asked to take into account Frank’s brilliance, her sexuality and even what would try the patience of any parent; her snark and her occasional snippish remarks against the people with whom she hid in a cramped annex for two years. Heres a sp... full review

God this play is the greatest.... full review

If you are a human being in LA, you NEED to see this show! Especially if you are a woman, a Jew, queer, or a person who hates fascism and bigotry. If you are someone who hasn't read Anne's diary since middle school or are a WWII history buff, everyone will get something out of this show. It is extremely funny, heartfelt, and relatable. I learned more about Anne than I ever knew before and got to rediscover what an intelligent young woman she was. This show is politically poignant in a society that is oversaturated with news of mass shootings and systemic racism. Rachel wrote this show from the heart, and her performance leaves the audience both laughing and in tears. (It was laugh out loud funny.) Go see this show, you will regret it if yo... full review

Touching, funny, poignant, unabashed. I fuckin' cried y'all!... full review

Raw and powerful. Heartbreaking and hilarious. An ideal Fringe show! Highly recommend checking this one out.... full review

Like many of you, I read The Diary of Anne Frank in school, and never knew there was so much more to the story. Comedian Rachel McKay Steele delivers a moving and emotional tribute to the legacy of Anne Frank, and teaches us Goy a thing or two about the Jewish faith. ... full review

A very enlightening experience. Rachel gave an absolutely amazing performance ! Learned so much about Anne Frank and the Jewish Culture! Highly recommend seeing and looking forward to seeing more of Rachel on stage, film, tv and online ! Truly touched.... full review

So funny, sweet and engaging. Like any good conversation with an old friend, the show weaves easily between hilarity and rage, silliness and tears. ... full review

If you are human you should go see this show. The best one person piece I have ever seen. I was riveted from the first moment to the last and on my feet before she could finish her bow.... full review