Sarasota Native Stars As Title Role In ANNIE

Tony Award-winning favorite Annie comes to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall for two performances on Tuesday, March 14 and Wednesday, March 15 at 7PM . Annie is back on its second U.S. National Tour, now entering its second smash year. Directed by original lyricist and director Martin Charnin for the 19th time, this production of Annie is a brand new physical incarnation of the iconic Tony Award-winning original.

11-year-old Sarasota actress Tori Bates will be starring as the world's most famous red-headed orphan. Her casting makes her the first biracial actress to play the role in a Broadway or national tour. Bates was last seen in her role as Josephine Baker in the world premiere of Josephine at the Asolo Repetory Theatre. Tori became hooked on performing after taking part in a summer theater camp at the Players Centre in Sarasota. She then took part in a summer intensive presented by the Broadway Artist Alliance in New York where she and her mother first heard about auditions for Annie.

Annie tells the extraordinary story of a little orphan girl and her search to find her real parents. She is aided by Depression-era billionaire Oliver Warbucks who offers up a $50,000 reward for her parents. Con artists Rooster, Lily, and the wicked Miss Hannigan hatch a plot to kidnap Annie and claim the reward. But don't fret: this classic family musical has a happy ending for Annie, Sandy, Mr. Warbucks and the whole gang.

Tickets are $36-$86. Purchase at VanWezel.org, the Box Office, or by calling 941-953-3368.

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