Quote of the Day: A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees. ∼ Amelia Earhart 

What is the one word that comes to mind when you think of the musical Annie? Is it kindness, hope, unwavering spirit? Is it laughs, endearment, red hair and sunshine? All those things, of course, and more. Annie has been delighting audiences and inspiring little girls (and older ones, too) for over 50 years. It’s set to have a revival on Broadway in 2027. Set during the Great Depression in New York City in the 1930’s, you like to believe that was a difficult time, long ago and far away. But, society never really changes. The divide between the haves and the have-nots is wide. What gives us hope while watching Annie is seeing a little girl who never lets the hard knocks of life get her down. We root for her, are charmed by her, and believe that the sun will come out tomorrow to a better day. 

“Little Girls” in Annie at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 2/27/27. Photo: Dan Norman

The Chanhassen Dinner Theatres’ creative team gives us all the feels as we enter into the holiday season. Since the final scene in Annie is Christmas, it fits with the tradition of having a holiday themed show on stage. But, Annie is timeless and can be enjoyed any time of year, at any age, and any place. Seeing a professional production is a real treat. The entire ensemble is spectacular! Tamara Kangas Erickson, who played one of the orphan girls on the Chanhassen stage in 1984, is back at the Chan as director and choreographer for this production! The movement in this production is delightful, from the little girls singing about cleaning the orphanage to the homeless people sharing their meager morsels of soup. Music Director Andy Kast leads a live 10-piece orchestra situated up and behind the performers. (We get a quick glimpse of them at curtain call.) Everything about this production feels so alive!

Dante’ Jamar Lamonte Murray as Oliver Warbucks and Eve Scharback as Annie, and cast in Annie at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 2/27/27. Photo: Dan Norman

Naturally, the child actors are adorable, especially the youngest one, Lucy Anderson as the spunky Molly, who nearly steals the show. The child actors are double-cast for this show. We saw the enormously talented Eve Scharback in the title role. She is charming and energetic and hits all the notes with skill and precision. She played beautifully alongside Danté Jamar Lamonte Murray who is a deep-voiced, charismatic Daddy Warbucks. Anna Hashizume is a classy Grace whose gorgeous voice floats through the theater.

Serena Brooks as Miss Hannigan, Thomas Bevan as Rooster, and Daysha Ramsey as Lily in Annie at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 2/27/27. Photo: Dan Norman

Serena Brooks absolutely nailed it as Miss Hannigan, a character we love to hate. She is tipsy and sharp, and her comedic timing impeccable. Tomas Bevan is fantastic as Rooster. He had the moves and body language to really sell that character. Add in the beautiful Daysha Ramsey as Lily St. Regis, and you have a dynamic trio. Their “Easy Street,” was one of the highlights of the show! 

“Hooverville” cast of Annie at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 2/27/27. Photo: Dan Norman

The gorgeously detailed set, that moved easy between orphanage and mansion was designed by Nayna Ramey. Marvelous costume design by Rich Hamson. Lighting design by Sue Ellen Berger, and sound design by Russ Haynes. 

And last, but certainly not least, is Addison, rescued and trained to be the dog Sandy by Bill Berloni. She was, of course, the star of every scene that she was in, charming the audience, and never missing her mark.

Dante’ Jamar Lamonte Murray as Oliver Warbucks and Eve Scharback as Annie, and Addison as Sandy in Annie at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 2/27/27. Photo: Dan Norman

Annie is one of those shows that is safe to take the whole family to. If you’re looking for experiences instead of elaborate gifts this holiday season, get your tickets to Annie at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. The food is delicious, the show inspiring, and the memories they create will last a lifetime. Playing through February 27, 2027.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Do you have a special memory of going to memorable events with your parents, grandparents, or children/grandchildren? What makes them special? Who was there and what did you do?