Please join us in welcoming the cast for this year’s Penguin Project Summer Camp production of Annie, KIDS. Camp will take place July 20–24, culminating in a performance on Friday, July 24, at 6:30pm. Directed by Lynn Gunter, with musical direction by Cassie Hickman, the week-long camp is part of The Penguin Project, a nationwide program that provides children with differing abilities the opportunity to experience the magic of live theatre alongside peer mentors.
The Penguin Project empowers young artists to take the stage in front of an audience while building confidence, friendships, and lifelong memories. Each performer is paired with a mentor of similar age who provides encouragement and assistance throughout the rehearsal process, helping them learn lines, choreography, and stage movement while ensuring every participant has the opportunity to shine.
This year’s production of Annie KIDS brings the beloved story of little orphan Annie to life. Set in 1930s New York City, the musical follows Annie, portrayed by Isabella Lee, Addy Miller, and Kenzie Raborn, as she searches for the parents who left her at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage years before. Annie’s journey is complicated by the cruel Miss Hannigan, played by Zoe McIntosh and Aarvi Desai, but her optimism and determination ultimately lead her to billionaire Oliver Warbucks, portrayed by Parker Odom-Trege and Cole Taylor, and his devoted secretary Grace Farrell, played by Elizabeth Legg and Kinley Hibbs. Along the way, Annie also outsmarts the scheming Rooster Hannigan, portrayed by Tris Hempstead and Luke Hickman, and Lily St. Regis, played by Paisley Hayes and Kinley Rushing, proving that family can be found in the most unexpected places.
Rounding out the cast are Kolin Patterson and Jai Durvasula as Miles; Keaton Rushing and Hailey Jackson as Pepper; Delaney Lee and Aubree Matthews as Tessie; Jill Miller and Caroline Clark as Kate; Riley Gallant as July; Madi Qualls Usherette; Chapel Johnson and Lily Hicks-Langston as Duffy; Trace Miller and Luke Legg as Drake/Bert Healy; Rebekah Lee and Rosalie Itzel Alatorre Olmos as Mrs. Greer/Apple Seller; Bella Johnson, Allie Gallant, and KatieWyn Legg as Mrs. Pugh; Jake Conner and Bennett Sandifer as Policeman/FDR/Mr. Bundles; Mia Miller and Zara Nwude as Star to Be #1; Dani Legg and Amara Nwude as Star to Be #2; and Channing Lee as Sandy, completing a talented ensemble that will bring this timeless musical to life.
“The Penguin Project is one of the most meaningful programs I’ve ever had the privilege to be part of,” said director Lynn Gunter. “Watching these young artists discover their confidence, build friendships, and realize they belong on stage is something that touches everyone involved. It’s more than a musical. It’s a celebration of inclusion, acceptance, and the incredible things our community can accomplish when everyone is given the opportunity to shine.”
For tickets visit SAAC’s online box office or call us at 870-862-5474.