VERO BEACH — The fiery, young red-headed “Annie,” the little orphan made famous in the comic strip created by Harold Gray in 1884, will star in the Vero Beach Theatre Guild’s production of “Annie” March 10 through 27. Director of this beloved musical of stage and screen is Don Daniels. Producer is John Toohey; stage manager, Clara McCarthy; and musical directors, Debbie and Jim Kepler.
Heading the large cast will be Britteny Gazdecko as Annie; “Daddy” Warbucks, Jim Daly; Valerie Thaw, Grace Farrell; and Martha Kelly as Miss Hannigan.
The story begins in an orphanage in the early 1930s, where Annie and many of her friends are abused by a tyrant supervisor, Miss Hannigan. Annie attempts several escapes in search of her long-lost parents, but is always found and returned to the orphanage.
Her situation seems hopeless until a billionaire, Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks, sends his assistant, Grace Farrell, to the orphanage to bring back one of the youths for a short visit.
Annie is chosen, and as she charms the house staff, even the cold-hearted “Daddy” Warbucks melts under her heart-warming ways. He decides to help her find her parents and offers a reward to any couple proving their identity.
The greedy Miss Hannigan, hoping to reel in the reward money, has her brother, Rooster, and a female accomplice impersonate Annie’s parents. If they succeed, Annie will be in grave danger.
Will Annie be taken away? Will Daddy Warbucks see through the treacherous scheme? What will happen to the lovable little orphan Annie and her faithful dog Sandy?
With music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Martin Charmin and book by Thomas Meehan, theatregoers will enjoy several popular numbers, including “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard-Knock Life.”
Other cast members include Dana Rogers, Ben Earman, Kelly Muldoon, Rebekah Blumstein, Kendra Osborn, Samantha Cass, Brenna Duncanson, Claire Collier; Larry Strauss, John David Panula, Neal Stannard, James Davis, Rich Stewart, Art Haeberle, Sean Muldoon, Debra Chastain, Rachel Tall, Robin Spalin, Paula Van Hooser, Robin Volsky, Collette Loo and Chrystal Kepler.
Chairing other departments are: Production/set design/choreography, Denise Lee; costumes, Ann McCabe; props, Anne Talbot; hair and makeup, Madelyn Rogers; lighting, Robbie Messersmith; sound, Ed Dessureau
Treasure Coast Financial Planning is sponsoring the production. The Guild, celebrating its 53rd season, is a live community theatre at 2020 San Juan Ave.
There will be 13 performances for Annie:
March 10, 16, 17, 24 at 7 p.m.
March 11, 12, 18, 25 at 8 p.m.
March 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $22 (A section) and $20 (B section); youth 18 and under are half-price.
Purchase tickets at the Box Office, (772) 562-8300 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. weekdays or one hour prior to curtain.
Adult tickets may also be purchased on-line at www.verobeachtheatreguild.com; youth and wheelchair/companion seats must be purchased through the Box Office only.
