Leapin’ Lizards! Little Orphan Annie has come to the Poncan Theatre to stay Oct. 11-13 as the Evans Academy of Children’s Performing Arts presents the musical Annie Jr, with a cast of more than 40 talented area boys and girls plus one dog.
Based on the popular Harold Gray comic strip of the 1920s, 30s and 40s, the show features some of the greatest musical theatre hits of all time, including the iconic “Tomorrow.”
Director Dr. Eddie Dixon describes the work as an ideal vehicle to showcase younger actors who have not had a chance to shine on stage. “’Annie’ is a perfect role [for a younger child],” he noted. “The orphans steal the show.”
Sharing the title role of the feisty little redhead are Emmie Harnden and Emma Deming. Deming, in her fourth Academy production, describes Annie as “nice, caring and spunky.” The very demanding role requires top vocal as well as dramatic skills, and the portrayers give a superior performance.
Annie’s devoted mutt, Sandy, is played by Kingsley.
Nasty Miss Hannigan, head of the bleak New York City institution housing Annie and her fellow orphans, is played alternately by Evie Larson and Mallory Stolhand. Ponca Citian Larson, who is performing against type, says “It’s fun to play another character—a crazy, insane person. She’s sassy and loud, bright and colorful.”
Landon Smykil of Newkirk, last seen as the Beast in the Academy’s production of Beauty and the Beast, portrays self-made billionaire Oliver J. “Daddy” Warbucks, who decides to host an orphan for Christmas. “The play is very wholesome and sweet and [the audience] will leave the theater with a happy feeling,” he says.
The role of Warbucks’ personal secretary, the sympathetic Grace Farrell, is shared by Emma Valgora and Kira Pendleton. Pendleton, of Tonkawa, calls Annie “an amazing show to be a part of.”
Kaden Swords is the villain you love to hate in his part of Rooster, Miss Hannigan’s unscrupulous brother with designs on the reward offered to find Annie’s parents. Lily, played by Jocelyn Kuhlmann and Addison Kyler, is his girlfriend and coconspirator. Their lively “Easy Street” number with Miss Hannigan is hilarious.
The orphans give a knockout rendition of “It’s a Hard Knock Life,” dancing and singing in their dreary dormitory. Orphans include Pepper, played by Brylen Liberton; Duffy, by Addyson Harmon; July, Andi Wood; Tessie, Jaelyn Stolhand; Kate, Hallie Steffey; and Molly, Mackenzie Kyler. Also appearing as orphans are Frankie Diaz, Regan Friess, Tanna ...
