The sun’ll come out tomorrow…and so will Riverside Public School’s production of Annie.
Excitement is building for this week’s performances of the classic musical from the 1970s about a sassy young orphan.
“We did Annie nine or 10 years ago and I saw the Mirvish production last year,” said teacher and director, Diane Gagnon. “I loved it so much and couldn’t resist doing it again. It is my last year of teaching, too. I love offering that experience to the students but I must add that it would not be possible without the help and support of my colleagues.”
The Annie cast comprises 35 students from grades four and up, plus a chorus of 60 students from grade one to four.
The lead roles are being played by Amelia Broadbent (Annie), Danica Ward (Miss Hannigans), and Braiden Ashby (Oliver Warbucks).
“Amelia is only in grade 7 and already she writes her own lyrics and music,” said Gagnon. “She plays guitar while singing. It was not difficult to cast her in that role and, to make it even better for us, she is a beautiful red headed girl!”
Production staff includes Janice Roy and Heather Martin (vocal coaching), Jeff Jones and Laurene Boutin (chorus), Ocea Harris (choreography), Stacey Ridley (costumes), Elaine Christensen (set design), and director Diane Gagnon.
Students have been rehearsing since January 8. They will perform on Tuesday, April 30 for Huntsville schools and on Wednesday, May 1 for Riverside students. The general public can attend shows at the school on Wednesday, May 1 and Thursday, May 2 at 6:30 p.m.
The performance is free but donations for the food bank are welcome.
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