When it comes to musicals, Annie is quite possibly *the* most iconic. The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s Annie Jr. opened this weekend and is a kid-friendly, 65-minute version of the original. True to the classic, Annie Jr. is full of heart and hope; it’s a Broadway-level show presented by Cincinnati’s very own Children’s Theatre.
Running now through March 8, The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s Annie Jr. is a dose of sunshine for Cincinnati audiences.
Fourteen-year-old Walnut Hills student Diana Hutchinson absolutely shines as the plucky heroine. She is the first-ever black actress to play “Annie” in the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s production of the musical, which has graced the stage several times in the troupe’s 100-year history. She brings equal parts sass and sweetness to the title role, not to mention incredible singing skills.
The choreography and caliber of this Children’s Theatre production is Broadway level, and you’ll be mesmerized by this theatre troupe’s production of the beloved classic. Of particular note is the “Hard Knock Life” sequence, which is executed flawlessly and just plain fun to watch.
I am continually amazed by the quality of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s MainStage shows. The set and costume design, song and dance numbers, choreography and performing are unparalleled. Our children’s theatre is top notch, offering memorable interactions with the performing arts for Cincinnati families. Being able to take young children to the theater — in an experience that’s tailored just for their attention spans — is everything.
As we look toward spring, The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s Annie Jr. is a much-needed reminder that sunnier days are ahead. Whatever we’re going through, the sun will come out tomorrow.
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s Annie Jr. runs now through March 8 at the Taft Theatre and tickets are still available. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit thechildrenstheatre.com.