Family favourite ‘Annie’ set for Empress Theatre

People can enjoy a crowdfavourite musical production of “Annie” in June at the Empress Theatre.

“Everything is going great. We are well into rehearsals and everyone is now off-script. Stage sets are being designed and painted and there is a joyful excitement surrounding the play,” says Margaret Ann Bianco, administrative director for the Empress Theatre.

There will be 20 cast members who have roles for “Annie.” Bianco says this will be the largest cast ever of all of their plays.

Staff members at the Empress are always thinking of theatrical productions that can be brought to Fort Macleod and the region.

“Annie” is a popular musical most people have grown up hearing and seeing.

“‘Annie’ is an iconic play and musicals are always a hit in Fort Macleod and surrounding communities,” adds Bianco. “‘Annie’ is one of the best family musicals of all time. It is a joy to look out into the audience and see all the grandparents, moms and dads, aunts and uncles and siblings of all cast members and community.”

Bianco says once their poster for the production is hanging in storefronts and distributed to outlying communities, they anticipate ticket sales to soar.

“Our spring play is always the talk of the town. There are lots of tickets left, but we recommend you purchase your tickets early to get a good seat,” she says.

All of the plays put on at the Empress Theatre have been successful, so they anticipate the same for the production of “Annie.”

“We anticipate ‘Annie’ to be embraced and adored by the community. The songs are very familiar, so we expect a lot of audience participation and clapping,” adds Bianco.

“This musical production is our spring fundraiser for the theatre. Any revenues generated by the play help offset our operating expenses.”

Bianco adds audience members will love the energy of their fabulous cast, the fun, familiar songs and the classic rags-to-riches story.

“Annie” will have evening performances at the Empress Theatre on June 1,2, 3, 8, 9, 10 and will have matinée performances on June 3 and 10. Evening performances will be at 7 p.m. with matinée performances at 1 p.m.

Tickets are $20 per adult for $10 per seniors and children aged four to 17 years old. Children three and under can enjoy it for free.

To purchase tickets: http://www.macleodempress.com/.