The Broadway classic Annie premiered on March 31 at The Hong Kong Academy of Preforming Arts (HKAPA). Twenty-eight local girls were chosen to perform in Annie, with English musical theatre actors Su Pollard and David McAlister bringing this serious yet humorous musical to life.
Annie is the touching and joyous story of how the life of the rich, miserable and gruff Oliver Warbucks changes when the orphan Annie arrives, and the strength and faith of Annie’s undying belief that her parents will come and rescue her from the orphanage. Directed and produced by Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, CEO James Cundall was thrilled by the invitation to perform in Hong Kong.
Only seven weeks earlier, in the basement of HKAPA, these 28 young ladies first auditioned for the parts in Annie. From age 6 to 14, in all sizes and shapes, Director Roger Hannah carefully picked the best of the best. After that, all the girls were rigorously and carefully put through a series of trainings. They showed the capability of the next generation of Hong Kong.
It wasn’t until two days ago that the entire production team came together for the final rehearsals. In less than a week, the team had perfected its art and was ready for the show. In an earlier interview, Director Roger Hannah had remarked that in show biz there is never enough time and that the girls were doing an amazing job.
