Possum Point Players Juniors Open ANNIE This Weekend

Possum Point Players youth affiliate Possum Juniors open their summer production of "Annie" on Friday, July 19, and performances continue July 20 and 21. Annie and her side kick Sandy and a host of singing and dancing orphans remind everyone that even if you're living a "Hard Knock Life," there will always be a "Tomorrow" to look forward to. More than 20 young actors spanning the ages of 11 to 18 perform the musical classic that is entertaining fun for all ages.

Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30 pm, and Sunday matinee is at 2 p.m.; tickets are $12 for students and $15 for adults. Unreserved seating is general admission and tickets can be purchased at www.possumpointplayers.org, the ticket line, 302-856-4560 or at the door.

Possums Junior member and show director Morgan Whittam said, " "Annie" is such a high energy show with such contagious optimism that it is nearly impossible to listen to the songs and not immediately have your spirits lifted. The show conveys a message of hope and optimism and I hope audiences can come to this show and leave with a smile on their faces and a song in their hearts."

She credits "an amazingly talented cast" for their theatre skills, and "a wonderful and dedicated crew" for bringing this lovable show to the stage for the enjoyment of kids, parents, families and friends.

Representing more than a dozen area communities in Delaware and Maryland, the cast includes Jillian Gardner, Kelley Collins and Cameron Austin of Lewes, and Georgetown residents Braeden Swain, Olivia Farro, Landon Rockwell, Maggie Vazquez and Rhys Humphreys. Cast members from Seaford are GG Voges, Nicte Mendoza, Ariella Murhpy, Shayla Voet and Andrea Padilla.

Also appearing in "Annie" are Connor Hall, Milford; Marissa Wheaton, Berlin, Md; Rowan Ruesing, Dagsboro; Jasmine Schaeffer, Ocean View; Lena Bellistri, Bethany Beach; and Marley Enright, Rehoboth Beach. Rounding out the cast are Allie Noworthy, Laurel; Bridget Cooper, Harbeson; Finley Sheridan, Frankford; Kaleb Parsons, Bridgeville; and Zach Naar, Milton.

And four-legged Sandy is played by Roxy who is owned by Daphne Branner of Rehoboth beach.

Eleven-year-old Jillian Gardner, who plays Annie, said, "Everyone should come see "Annie" because the show has an optimistic meaning with a beautiful end. The music sounds amazing, especially because of our real orchestra. The actors were no doubt made to be on stage and made to be in this show!"

She adds, "Something I really like about "Annie" is that Sandy is a real-life dog! Another thing I love is the choreography in some scenes. It just looks so professional especially because we have a few real dancers and they're experts at what they do!"

Possum Juniors membership is open to area youngsters from sixth through 12th grade and they meet and participate in theatre group activities throughout the year. With assistance and guidance from their advisors, they annually present a summer production that is chosen, planned and carried out by members and other youth who audition or volunteer to work on the show.

Annie is presented through special arrangement with MTI Shows, Inc., New York.