A Broadway Musical in Knowlton
By John Griffin
Little Orphan Annie began life as a comic strip in 1924 and ran until 2010. But it was Annie, the Broadway musical, that truly captured hearts when it debuted in 1977 — and it’s still going strong. This spring, the beloved musical comes to Knowlton, opening April 25 at Théâtre Lac-Brome.
The production is the latest ambitious project from the Knowlton Players, under the direction of Lucy Hoblyn. Featuring a cast and crew of dozens, the show includes 15 songs, colourful costumes, and plenty of heart.
Ten-year-old Sutton sensation Rosemary Turner stars as the plucky orphan, while long-time Players member Danny MacAuley takes on the role of her benefactor, Daddy Warbucks. The role of Annie’s loyal dog, Sandy, is played by Oscar, a Hoblyn family spaniel mix.
“I got the rights to do the show about six months ago,” said Hoblyn.
“Then I got a call from Sutton — the kids from Sutton Ballet wanted in. Fresh blood, great!”
As for casting the lead, Hoblyn says:
“As soon as Rosemary auditioned, we knew she was Annie. There are six lead roles — aged 7 to 93 — and 36 parts in total. All amazing.”
Katherine Jacques is stage managing the production.
“We’ve been in rehearsals for two months at the community centre. They gave us a big room, which is great. It’s going very well and is lots of fun,” she says.
As Hoblyn puts it:
“Annie is about hope, optimism, and looking forward to the future.
In this day and age, what’s not to love?”
🎟 Tickets:
www.knowltonplayers.ca
📞 450-915-0562
📍 Show Dates at Théâtre Lac-Brome:
- April 25–27
- May 1–4
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