Annie was the first musical that I ever loved. I remember sitting in the hallway of my old house in Spring Branch in 1983, dutifully dubbing tapes of the original movie soundtrack to give out as birthday favors for my Annie-themed birthday party. Of course, the way we did it back then was with two tape recorders sitting face to face and the entire household being as quiet as possible. Needless to say, my guests all received copies of the Annie soundtrack with parakeet chirping throughout!
I later got to perform in Annie at Miller Outdoor Theatre in 1990. This was my first show ever to be in the "adult" ensemble and with a minor role as Bonnie Boylan. I was already an amazon at age 12 and missed any opportunity to play the iconic red-headed orphan. It didn't matter. I can still remember learning each of those incredible songs and knowing without a doubt that I wanted to be an actor for the rest of my life.
41 years after its original Broadway run, Annie still resonates with audiences. However, like any show which has been around the proverbial block a few times, I felt that Annie could use a few new touches. With the addition of a prologue, newsboys, and ghostly memories of the past, this production is filled with surprises even for a seasoned theatre crowd.
What never changes is the hope that pervades our youth. Just as Annie was able to find a silver lining during the Great Depression, I find inspiration and hope in this next generation. In the divided times in which we live, it brings me a peaceful joy to hear our kids sharing ideas and opinions within a context of love. I am amazed at their bravery and fortitude during such a noisy and complex time in our history, and it gives me hope that this country will continue to thrive, just as our forefathers dreamed.
