News and Views

Based on the popular comic strip, Annie Junior tells of a spunky Depression-era orphan determined to find her parents, who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan'sevil machinations, befriends President Franklin Roosevelt and finds a new family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell and a lovable mutt named Sandy. Its upbeat plot and flamboyant characters have made Annie one of the most beloved musicals in history. What girl hasn't dreamed of assuming the title role or playing the outrageous Miss Hannigan? Cast size is flexible, and the age range of the parts makes the show ideal for productions involving different grade levels, or for middle schools where students may be maturing at different rates. The bright, tuneful score is easy to sing and filled with so many familiar numbers; don't be surprised if your cast starts teaching the songs to you! A surefire hit, Annie Junior is also a great way to study the Depression and theNew Deal, and to address such issues as unemployment, homelessness and adoption.