NEWTOWN, Conn. — Newtown Stage Company proudly presents the beloved Broadway classic “Annie” at Edmond Town Hall Theater from Friday, Nov. 21, through Sunday, Nov. 23. This heartwarming production brings to life the timeless story of hope, resilience and family, featuring a talented cast of local students in grades 3-12 from Newtown, Monroe and surrounding communities.
The role of Sandy will be played by Thor, a therapy dog owned by Scott Weiss of Monroe. Thor is well-known throughout Monroe for his visits to Monroe public schools, the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library’s Read With Thor program, and a regular at local hospitals. This marks both Thor’s stage debut and Newtown Stage Company’s first K-9 actor, which is an exciting milestone for the entire team of dog-loving cast and crew.
Having Thor at rehearsals has brought extra joy to the process, and audiences will surely be charmed by his onstage presence. “It has been an amazing learning experience and opportunity for the cast and crew,” said Cassidy Bloom. “Thor and Scott have been so great to work with and having a therapy dog has made the hectic moments feel more calm.”
Several Monroe residents shine in the cast, including Noah Napolitano as Bert Healy (and several other roles), Theodore Schoeder as Wacky, Leah Morey as a featured dancer, and Lyah Pawluk, Michael Dono, and Ella Hardy as members of the ensemble.
“Annie” is directed by Katie Bloom of Monroe, with choreography by Erin Loucks and music direction by Ryan Loucks, both of Newtown. Gwendolyn Niles of Easton designs the costumes, and Tyler Violette of Terryville serves as stage manager. Set construction is led by Justin Bloom of Monroe and Michael Romano of Bridgewater.
Additional Monroe residents on the production team include Cassidy Bloom, a Masuk High School junior who serves as assistant stage manager and assistant choreographer, and Ryan Sokira, a Masuk senior. Richard Beirut, also a Masuk junior, and Landon Bloom, a Jockey Hollow seventh grader, are both longtime NSCo volunteers assisting behind the scenes.
The title role of Annie is played by Carolina Romano of Bridgewater. Jake Golesky of Newtown stars as Oliver Warbucks, with Sara McGann-Berman of Danbury as Grace, and Olivia Grasso as Miss Hannigan, Benjamin Wismar-Burger as Rooster and Elizabeth Collins as Lily St. Regis all three are from Newtown.
Performances will take place at Edmond Town Hall Theater, 45 Main St., Newtown, on:
- Friday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 22, at 1 and 7 p.m.
- Sunday, Nov. 23, at 1 p.m.
Tickets are available now on Newtown Stage Company’s website.
Join Newtown Stage Company for an unforgettable production filled with classic songs, lively dance numbers, and the irresistible optimism of everyone’s favorite red-headed orphan. This family-friendly show is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.
Runtime is approximately two hours and 30 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission, with full movie-theater concessions available.
A Toys for Tots collection drive will be held in the theater lobby during all performances for those who wish to donate.
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