"These orphans are getting ready to hit the stage this July in Annie Jr." -Really Cool Initiatives
After a fantastic response to last year’s showing of Matilda, a local theatre troupe is turning to another famous heroine for their next production.
Renfrew-based Really Cool Initiatives returns to the stage next month with the classic Broadway musical “Annie Jr.,” featuring over 50 local actors, including another eager cast of kids that Director Jennifer St. Michael says continues their bid to get more young performers on stage in a post-pandemic world.
Rehearsals at the Trinity St. Andrews United Church have been progressing well, and St. Michael adds that they’re lucky to have St. Joseph’s High School as their host when the curtains go up in early July.
She also points out that their young stars have once again wowed their older counterparts with their willingness and capability as they prepare for their time in the limelight.
In fact, so many fantastic young thespians showed an interest in being a part of this year’s production that they’ve had to get creative with some of the casting, including the role of Annie.
Really Cool Initiatives’ run of Annie Jr. starts with a special dinner theatre performance at St. Joes on Wednesday, June 9th, presented by the Renfrew Rotary Club in support of Rotary Homes. Tickets are $100 and available through members Doug Ryan at 416-460-5862 or Janet Springer at 613-433-6694.
Tickets for their traditional theatre seating shows at 7:00 pm on July 10th and 11th and 2:00 pm on July 12th and 13th are $15 and available at Aikenhead’s Pharmacy, Ottawa Valley Coffee, Renfrew Chiropractic, or online.
(written by Kasey Egan)