How does it feel to perform in such a beloved musical like ANNIE?
Being part of Annie feels like being in a dream that never ends! We have performed the show over 150 times already. It's still just as thrilling every single time.
When I step onto that stage, it's like slipping into a familiar pair of shoes—Annie's shoes, to be exact. I know her story inside and out, every little nuance of her character. But even though I've done it so many times, it never gets old. Each performance is like a new adventure.
The music is ingrained in my soul by now. “Maybe,” "Tomorrow," "It's the Hard-Knock Life," they're like old friends. But even after singing them so many times, they still give me goosebumps.
I love performing in front of different audiences and feeling their energy, laughter, and applause. Performing in Annie is a privilege, a joy, and an adventure I'll never forget.
Do you have a favorite moment / song in the show?
My most favorite moment in the show is when the audience first meets Annie. She comes in the scene strong, taking charge of the situation in the orphanage but also showing how loving and caring she can be. Annie is tough but also motherly.
My favorite song besides the iconic “Maybe” and “Tomorrow,” would be “NYC.” It showcases almost the entire cast and is a love song to NYC. The music is wonderful but the scene, lighting, costumes, and choreography is what makes it my favorite. At any moment in the song, you could take a picture and it would be like a beautiful postcard from NYC.
Do you ever get nervous performing in front of big audiences?
I don't think I have ever been nervous performing in front of any audience. But I do get butterflies of excitement and anticipation right before stepping on stage.
How do you prepare for a show?
I am always preparing for a show. Sleep is the most important thing. I try to get at least 10 hours of sleep every night. I also drink a lot of water. Singing requires that your vocal chords are hydrated and Annie sings A LOT! I do a 20 minute vocal warm up, tongue twisters, and review lines before heading to the theater. When I get to the theater, I have a “dog call” with the dogs that play Sandy, where we walk through their scenes and give them lots of love and treats and get them ready to perform that show. I might do another group vocal warm up with the girls that play the orphans. Then I get into wig and costume and head to the stage where we review a fight scene for safety right before curtains up.
How do you balance performing and school?
I switched to homeschooling as soon as I found out I would be on this tour. I do about 3-4 hours of school every school day but we have a tutor that travels with us and makes sure that school is balanced with the rehearsals and performances. I actually really like this type of school a lot.
Favorite place you’ve visited so far on tour?
There are so many amazing cities and theaters that we have performed in. Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, San Antonio, Denver, Atlanta, Boston have been my favorite so far.
When did you start performing and what was your first role?
I started training to perform at age six, three if you count dancing. My first performance was with my family theater company, the Hurrah Players, in Moana. I was a village child, tattoo dancer, and young Moana understudy.
What do you do on your days off from the show? Any hobbies?
We don’t have a lot of days off, usually they are spent traveling. I love to hang out with the other girls in the show, we find fun things to do. We like to look for ramen, sushi, and boba restaurants. On my own, I love to draw and read.
Anything you’d like to do or see while in Cleveland?
I am excited to visit the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo for a field trip! If I have time I am definitely going to go to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the A Christmas Story House, that is one of my favorite Christmas movies.
Why should audiences come and see ANNIE at Playhouse Square?
ANNIE is a timeless tale of a young orphan girl who maintains hope for a better tomorrow despite her challenging circumstances. The story is filled with themes of optimism, resilience, and the power of love, making it a heartwarming experience for audiences of all ages.
This fantastic cast of professional actors bring the memorable characters to life, from the spunky and lovable Annie to the iconic Daddy Warbucks and the villainous Miss Hannigan. Audiences will be drawn to the diverse cast of characters and their individual journeys throughout the show.
With music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Martin Charnin, and a book by Thomas Meehan, "Annie" features a soundtrack filled with catchy tunes that have become classics in the world of musical theater. From the uplifting "Tomorrow" to the spirited "It's the Hard-Knock Life," the music adds depth and emotion to the story, leaving a lasting impression on audiences long after the curtain falls.
This is a show that promises to leave you with a smile on your face and a song in your heart. And one of the most important things…the most talented actor on stage is the real dog that plays Sandy! You don’t want to miss this show.
