After a successful run at the Woodlawn Theatre, this is the final weekend to catch ‘Annie,’ the family friendly musical about the spunky little orphan Annie who must endure life at an orphanage headed by the despicable Miss Hannigan. The final three performances on Friday, Saturday and Sunday are sold out; however, there will be Balcony seats available for Saturday and Sunday shows only and guests may purchase those tickets in person, first come, first served, one hour prior to showtime at the box office.

After the Overture, ‘Annie’ begins at the Municipal Girls Orphanage in 1933 where eleven-year-old Annie calms the youngest girl Molly after she awakens from a nightmare “Maybe.” Annie makes an unsuccessful escape attempt to try and find her parents and after being caught by Miss Hannigan, the girls are forced to clean up before their day of sweatshop duties begins “Hard Knock Life.” Later in the day, as Miss Hannigan flirts with Mr. Bundles the laundry man, Annie climbs into the laundry basket and escapes the orphanage. Now out on the streets, she runs into a friendly stray dog and comforts him by telling him of better days to come “Tomorrow.” She is eventually caught and sent back to the orphanage where Grace Farrel, assistant to the billionaire Oliver Warbucks, picks her to spend the Christmas holiday at this mansion. After she wins the hearts of everyone at the mansion, she finds a new home alongside the loveable mutt Sandy once it is revealed that her parents died when she was a baby “A New Deal for Christmas.”

Last Saturday’s performance played to an eager and packed house as fans of all ages came to see the musical about a spunky and optimistic orphan Annie whose life changes in ways she never dreamed possible. During this run, Maya Abelow and Alex Phillips took turns playing the title role and this time it was Alex Phillips’ turn at the spotlight and she did not disappoint. From the first notes of “Maybe” the orphans take center stage and all eyes are on them as they perform the audience favorite “Hard Knock Life.” Alex is a darling as Annie and her rendition of “Tomorrow” brought thunderous applause from the audience. Show highlights include “Little Girls” by Miss Hannigan and “Easy Street” by Miss Hannigan, Rooster and Lily. Melissa Gonzalez’ comical portrayal of Miss Hannigan is spot on and Jake the dog steals the scenes as Sandy. Alex Phillips and Roy Bumgarner as Oliver Warbucks have excellent on-screen chemistry and bring the story of Annie brilliantly to life. ‘Annie’ is a timeless story filled with humor, heart and catchy tunes that will resonate in the hearts and minds of audience members long after the show is over. It is a must-see holiday tradition the entire family can enjoy.