W.C. Miller Collegiate is bringing a classic musical to life later this month as students present their production of Annie.
For Gr. 10 student Hephzivah Claussen, who plays the title role, the Feb. 25-28. production marks a major step forward in her theatrical involvements.
“I just really wanted to be in a production,” she said. “When I found out I was Annie, I cried. I was so happy.”
Claussen said she had previously helped paint sets but had little acting experience before auditioning.
“I think I learned a lot about how to act, because I didn’t have much experience before,” she said. “But with the help of my mother and lots of praying, I was able to get the role that was perfect for me.”
The cast has been rehearsing since October, giving many students their first taste of life on stage.
Gr. 11 student Luciano Bartolozzi Ramirez plays Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks in his first theatrical role.
“I was sort of persuaded by my parents to try this,” he said, adding he was intrigued by how widely known the musical is. “Mostly I learned that I’m very confident and that I like being on stage. It’s fun, and that I can sing.”
He said audiences can expect an entertaining evening.
“You’re going to have a great time. The music is incredible. You’re going to dance, you’re going to have a fun time, so many laughs.”
Gr. 11 student Kenji Amura plays Rooster Hannigan, the show’s smooth-talking villain. Annie marks his third production at the school.
“He’s a sleazy hustler,” Amura said of his character. “He’s willing to do anything just to get a few dollars more.”
Amura said he enjoys taking on the role of the antagonist and drawing inspiration from classic movie villains.
“It’s a musical. It’s going to be a doozy,” he said. “People are really working hard to embody every character.”
For Gr. 10 student Ava Peters, who plays Grace Farrell, the production has been a confidence building experience. Like several of her castmates, it is her first time performing in a school show.
“It kind of brought my confidence up,” Peters said. “I didn’t think I could do something like this, but I actually could.”
She praised the effort behind the production and encouraged the community to attend.
“The costumes are really thought out. Everything is thought out and the casting is really good,” she said. “I think you should come watch it.”
The show is co-directed and co-produced by Sarah Gilbert and Jody Friesen, and includes a special performer: a real dog named River playing Annie’s faithful companion, Sandy. River is owned and trained by Brianna Fehr.
Tickets are available in advance only through the school’s website, (wcm.blsd.ca). Gilbert notes that they typically sell out quickly, so get them early to avoid disappointment.
