The first theatrical experience I recall is a Broadway production of Annie my parents took me to see when I was maybe seven or eight years old. I still vividly remember how thrilled I was when Annie, confronted by a police officer about a stray dog, made up the name Sandy on the spot and then had to prove it was her dog by calling him from across the stage. And then the dog came when she called! The dog could act! I was amazed.
Another striking memory is of the moment when the criminal, Rooster Hannigan, reveals his plan to get rid of Annie after they con Warbucks into handing her over and taking the reward money. When he drew a switchblade, I remember being terrified that he was going to kill the little girl.
Of course these are the recollections of a child, and today it is hard to find anyone who doesn't know the basic outline of the Annie story and who can't at least sing a few bars of "Tomorrow." Everyone knows it has a happy ending and there are few real surprises.
Still, in working on this piece with this remarkable cast of young people, we have attempted to recreate that feeling of childish wonder at the miracle of hope embedded in the story. Set in the midst of the Great Depression, the show addresses the crisis of doubt of an America whose leaders and institutions seem to be failing it's people. What is remarkable in the story is the argument it makes for optimism, for the belief that no matter how bad things may seem at the moment, there is always hope that "the sun will come out tomorrow."
I would like to thank the outstanding cast and crew of this production, most especially Musical Director Mark Oleszko and Choreographer and Costume Designer Erika Bance. Without them, none of what you see and hear on stage tonight would be possible.
We are all very proud of this cast of outstanding Repertory students. Thank you all for coming, and we hope you enjoy the show!
Robert Bruce McIntosh
