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Those who are fans of Anne of Green Gables always appreciate seeing a good rendition of the classic story they know and love.

Etobicoke Musical Productions (EMP) staged a fantastic rendition about the orphan who finally finds a family and a place to call home, in their lively and entertaining production of 'Anne of Green Gables, The Musical.'

EMP's first show of the season, this musical will satisfy die-hard fans of the story, while also making new ones. And for those who know the story well, you won't be disappointed as all the major moments are portrayed in this version.

Written by Donald Harron, with music by Norman Campbell and lyrics by both Harron and Campbell along with Mavor Moore and Elaine Campbell, this rendition was a flattering adaptation to Lucy Maud Montgomery's original novel.

Set in the early 1900's in Avonlea, P.E.I, this show tells the story of an orphan named Anne Shirley (Emily Hastings-Speck) who is sent to live with middle-aged siblings Mathew and Marilla Cuthbert (Kevin Dunne, Joan Cotton). The problem is that they requested a boy to help around their farm, Green Gables, so Marilla wants to send her back.

From the first time Matthew and Anne meet, he becomes enchanted with her and her unique personality, which was portrayed in the song 'Gee, I'm Glad I'm No one Else But Me.' An orphan her whole life, Anne talks a mile a minute and is fascinated by everything she sees.

Soon, she wins over Marilla, breaking through her icy demeanor, and it's not long before she meets a best friend in Diana Barry (Elizabeth Amos) and her nemesis, Gilbert Blythe (Ryan Gauvin). After a few bumpy adjustments, it's like Anne has belonged in Avonlea all along.

She is smart, and full of spirit and fire (and not just because of her red hair which she despises), and wins everyone over, including the town gossip Rachel Lynde (Susan Ambrose), and her teacher Miss Stacy (Laurie Russell).

This show is largely centred around the relationship between Anne and Matthew, as portrayed in the duet by the two called 'Humble Pie,' and Anne and Diana, sweetly-portrayed in their duet, 'Kindred Spirits.' It also shows Anne's transformation from being alone and living in a fantasy world, to being truly loved.

Because it's such a well-known story, there are some scenes that have to be included in order for it to be satisfying to those who know it. This version did the job well and contained vital scenes like Gilbert calling her carrots and Anne breaking the slate over his head, Diana accidentally getting drunk and Anne dying her hair green.

There are many fantastic scenes and musical numbers focused on the children of Avonlea, like 'Ice Cream,' all about their town picnic and 'Open the Window,' sung by Miss Stacy and the students.

While the company did a great job with their numbers, there were some outstanding individual performances, namely, Hastings-Speck, who played Anne. To play Anne, the actress has to possess personality, energy and likeability. Hastings-Speck possessed all three of those qualities and her performance was honest, believable and a pleasure to watch.

Also especially enjoyable to watch was Amos's portrayal of Diana; Dunne, who offered a moving performance as the quiet and sweet Matthew; and Gauvin's strong portrayal of Gilbert, who is smitten with Anne from the moment they meet.

The story of Anne of Green Gables means something different to everyone, but it really explores the themes of family, friendship and belonging. People of all ages will like this show as it's touching, funny and contains energetic song and dance numbers.

Anne of Green Gables the Musical's remaining performances are Nov. 21-22, 28, 8 p.m. and two 2 p.m. matinees on November 23 and 29, at Burnhamthorpe Auditorium, 500 The East Mall. Tickets are $23 and $17 for youth. For tickets, call 416-248-0410.