ANNIE Begins at Aurora's Paramount Theatre Tonight, 11/21

Bring the entire family and join Annie, her canine companion Sandy, and her pint-sized cohorts, tonight, Nov. 21-Dec. 30, 2012 at the Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora (now the second largest city in Illinois!)

Don't let the red curls, freckles and dress fool you. Little Orphan Annie is a true adventurer. This adorable little girl has been abandoned as a baby, raised in an orphanage, run away and lived with the homeless, befriended a United States' President, and found a new home with one of the wealthiest people in the country. And that's all in just 11 years. Leapin' Lizards! No wonder Annie was nominated for 11 Tony Awards and winner of seven, including Best Musical. From "Hard Knock Life" to "Tomorrow," the music, dancing and heartwarming story make Annie the perfect way for families to spend the holiday season.

Just wait until director/choreographer Rachel Rockwell ("Best Director," Chicago Magazine), music director Evan Rea, an A-list cast and design team and the Paramount Theatre Orchestra combine forces to do what Paramount does best: inject fresh, new ideas into beloved American musicals like Annie to create a sensational live theatrical experience like you've never seen before.

Performances start today, Nov. 21. Press opening is Saturday, Nov. 24 at 8 pm. Performances run through Dec. 30: Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. EXCEPTIONS (in chronological order): No show Thursday, Nov. 22 (Thanksgiving Day). There is an added matinee Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 10 a.m. No show Wednesday, Dec. 12. No evening show Wednesday, Dec. 19. No shows Thursday, Dec. 20; Wednesday, Dec. 26; and Thursday, Dec. 27. Tickets are only $34.90 to $46.90. Go toParamountAurora.com for tickets and information, call (630) 896-6666, or visit the Paramount box office Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and 2 hours prior to evening performances. Note: Annie is rated G.