“Annie” Hits the Spring Lake Stage

WHEN “ANNIE” first opened on Broadway at the Alvin Theatre (now The Neil Simon Theatre) on April 21, 1977, a young Andrea McArdle stepped onto the stage wearing the now-iconic red wig and dress. Since then, the role of Annie has launched the careers of Sarah Jessica Parker, Brittny Kissinger and Lilla Crawford. Even stars like Molly Ringwald and Alyssa Milano got their start in the ensemble, playing orphans in this musical favorite.

“Annie” continues to inspire the next generation of New Jersey talent. Its roots run deep in our state, with productions on local stages that give countless young actors their first big chance to shine. Additionally, the 1982 film adaptation was partly filmed at Monmouth University in West Long Branch. The Great Hall at Shadow Lawn was transformed into the mansion of billionaire Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks. Over the course of filming, various parts of the building were used to depict the grandeur of Warbucks’ New York residence. The production also involved the local community, with many residents serving as extras in the film.

“Annie” will be coming to The Spring Lake Theatre from July 9th to 20th, with Miss Hannigan, Daddy Warbucks, Annie and the orphans leading the way. This isn’t the first time “Annie” has graced the stage at The Spring Lake Theatre. The organization has a rich history of staging this classic show, with productions in 1985, 1992, 2010 and 2017.

According to Producer Patricia Barry, “I love ‘Annie’! This will be the fifth time we’ve presented ‘Annie’ on our stage. I believe that it’s important that we reprise this joyful musical every seven years or so because it gives a whole new group of children the ability to experience the joy that is ‘Annie’. A story about a little girl with a big heart and a lot of spirit that can make the world a better place is a message that never gets old.”

The tradition of bringing this beloved musical to the Spring Lake stage will have all the excitement, energy and enthusiasm of past productions, with Director Kerry White at the helm. “Growing up, it was always a dream of mine to direct ‘Annie’. I was so excited when my friend Pat Barry gave me the opportunity. Not only do I get to direct my one of my favorite musicals, but I get to do it alongside my little sister, Christine Baglivio (choreographer) and my friends, Pat Barry (Producer), Beth Moore (Musical Director) and Jackie Drudy (Stage Manager)—a girl-powered team indeed!”

Audiences will be transported back to New York City in 1933 for a musical experience not to be missed. Willa Hansen is so excited to be playing this iconic role of Annie, saying, “To me, being cast as Annie is a dream come true! I have been in theatre workshop since I was 5 after I saw Scrooge the year it was outside. All the characters put everyone in the Christmas spirit, and I knew I wanted to learn to sing and make people happy. Annie is a kind little girl with a big heart, and I want to show that onstage. I am excited to make the audience smile and feel joyful—just like Annie does!”

When asked what being cast in this year’s production of “Annie” meant to them, the kids’ excitement was absolutely contagious. Each child lit up with pride, eagerly sharing how much they were looking forward not just to the performance itself, but also to the rehearsals ahead. Sophia Zavalis, an orphan in the production, summed it up by saying, “It means so much to me to be a part of this iconic show doing what I love most with my friends, who are a group of some of the most talented girls I know. It’s definitely not a hard-knock life!

FROM THE CAST

Avery Clark, Orphan

Being cast in the “Annie” play is super exciting for me. Playing an orphan makes me realize that life is not always easy, that some people don’t have what we do. Some people are just trying to find a place called home.

Iris King, July

Being in “Annie” is the most exciting part of my summer! Being in a summertime show with so many friends is going to be so much fun! I’ve been doing theater for five years and always get excited to see the summer lineup. I’m excited to make new memories in “Annie!”

Zoey Carnahan, Tessie

I am so excited to be a part of “Annie!” I have always wanted to sing and dance. I am so excited to play the role of Tessie!

Sunny Carnahan, Pepper

Being cast in “Annie” gives me the chance to be a part of a story that brings laughter and love to an audience. “Annie” is one of those shows kids dream of being a part of, and I am very honored to play the role of Pepper.

Leanne Lardieri, Orphan

Being cast in “Annie” means having a great time, getting to know new people and learning new performance skills. I realize how lucky I am to have a great family, at the theatre and at home!

Madeleine Schiavone, Orphan

It’s an honor and privilege to be part of this amazing production of “Annie.” We always have the best time rehearsing and to be part of this community is a blessing. Can’t wait for the show!

Gwenyth Mencel, Orphan

I feel really proud to even make it in at all because “Annie” is one of the Spring Lake Theatre’s major productions!

Kay Losinger, Kate

Being cast in “Annie” is special to me because I love performing at Spring Lake Theatre, and I’m excited to be in this production with lots of my friends!

Calla Ibrahim, Orphan

I’m excited to be an Orphan. I’m excited for all the singing and dancing I will do!

Lucy Phoebus, Molly

I used to watch the movie when I was really little, and my family always told me I would make a great Molly someday if the theatre ever brought “Annie” back. It means so much to be able to play my favorite character in one of my favorite shows in my hometown!

Anna Jane Roehrig, Orphan

Being cast in “Annie” means so much to me because SLTDA is my second home. I spend most of my time with friends in dance classes, and I love that I get to spend more time over the summer in a show that I adore. I love to perform, and “Annie” is such an amazing show, from the great dance numbers to the amazing songs that stick in my head forever. I am so grateful to be cast in “Annie.”

Avery Schmidt, Orphan

I’m really excited to be in “Annie” because I love the music, and I started practicing before the audition. I’m excited to be an orphan with my friends!”

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit springlaketheatre.com.

BY DANIELLE KUTCHER