San Marcos Academy invites the public to attend the “Annie, Jr.” opening today at 7 p.m. at the Robinson Christian Center. Directed by SMA Theatre director Amanda Paz, the play is cast entirely by lower school students.
Bringing the beloved characters of “Annie Jr.” to life are Whitley Nash (Annie), Valentina Rodriguez (Miss Hannigan), Mia Garza (Grace Farrell), Nolan Warren (Oliver Warbucks), Elizabeth Gomez (Lily), and Ryker Latham (Rooster), supported by a vibrant ensemble of 28 Lower School actors.
Set in 1930s New York City, “Annie Jr.” tells the story of a plucky young orphan named Annie who, despite a difficult start at a municipal orphanage run by the embittered Miss Hannigan, never gives up on her dream of finding her parents.
Annie’s fortunes change when she is invited to spend the holidays with billionaire Oliver Warbucks. Along the way she befriends a lovable dog named Sandy, wins over Warbucks’ secretary Grace Farrell, and discovers that family can be found in the most unexpected places.
When Miss Hannigan and her cohorts attempt a crafty scheme, Annie’s unwavering hope and kindness triumph — and she finds not only a new home, but a new sense of belonging.
“As a new teacher here, it has been such a delight to see our students step into these characters with so much excitement. My hope is that when you attend, you’ll walk away inspired by their remarkable talent and by the way a bit of theatrical magic can brighten your day,” says Amanda Paz, SMA theatre teacher and “Annie, Jr.” director.
Additional showings of “Annie Jr.” are Saturday, Nov. 8 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 per adult and $3 per child and can be purchased at smabears.org or at the door.
Mia Garza, Whitley Nash and Nolan Warren as Grace Ferrell, Annie and Oliver Warbucks in “Annie, Jr.” PHOTO COURTESY OF SAN MARCOS ACADEMY
