Annie is a story that most, if not all, of us are familiar with, thanks to its multiple film adaptations and its timeless story that spans generations. Annie was the third-longest running musical in the 1970’s, closing after performing a whopping 2,377 Broadway performances. It currently ranks number 25 on the list of longest-running Broadway shows, winning 7 Tony awards in the process. So what is it about this show that is so relatable to everyone, a half century after its original premier?
I think its appeal stems not from Annie’s “rags to riches” story, or the cute dog, or the catchy tunes (although, those do help). No, there is something much deeper in Annie’s story that catches the attention and tugs at the heartstrings of audience members of all ages. I think its depth comes from Annie’s resilience, positivity, and optimistic outlook. Left in the care of the cruel and heartless Miss Hannigan, Annie has never known a life outside of the 4 walls of her orphanage. Even so, Annie has faith in the fact that this is not the end of her story, and that tomorrow is a new day. She knows that her challenges will not last forever, and in this realization, refuses to allow her difficult life to define who she knows that she is- a daughter of parents who love her very much, and would do anything to return back to her, if only they could. Although Annie’s story doesn’t end the way that she hopes, somehow, it is even better than she could have possibly imagined. She finds her home and her family in the most unexpected place for a depression-era orphan girl.
Annie’s story reminds me that although circumstances seem bleak (and sometimes, they are REALLY bleak), the sun will always come out tomorrow. It reminds me that God always has a plan for His children, and although our difficult situations may not turn out the way that we envision, His plan always prevails and is ALWAYS good. It reminds me that we are sons and daughters of a Father who loves us more than we can fathom, and wants more than anything for us to grow in our likeness of Him.
I would like to thank everyone who made this show happen, from the parents, to the crew, to the cast- there is no one else I could have dreamed of working with for NYT WI’s first show. Thank you to Justin Parks, who has gone above and beyond to help us open up this branch of NYT- thank you for being the Warbucks to my Annie, helping me close a painful chapter and begin a beautiful one. Thank you to my family, as well as the Zierten’s, Gonzales’, and Corn’s, for your flexibility and support throughout this process. Most of all, I’d like to thank the team- Angela, Jazmin, and Aaron, for taking this journey with me and jumping in with both feet when I approached you about this crazy project nearly a year ago. Words don’t really do justice to the debt of gratitude I owe you. Thank you.
We truly hope that you enjoy our show, and that you are as blessed by Annie’s story as we have been!
Alex Agos
Co-Director & Choreographer
