N.J.-S.P. Production of ‘Annie’ This Weekend

North Judson-San Pierre High School
North Judson-San Pierre High School

A musical classic is being staged by North Judson-San Pierre students this weekend. Performances of “Annie” will take place Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at the High School Auditorium.

Director Donna Ness says “Annie” was an easy choice for the spring musical, “Looking at the kids that we had, we’re a little low on guys right now in the department, and so “Annie” just seemed a natural, with all the girls in it. I knew [freshman] Carl [Rose] could step up to the task of the “Daddy” Warbucks, and we have another freshman who is doing a really good job with Rooster. So just looking at the kids that we had there, that’s how it happened.”

She says it’s a young cast taking part in this play, with many freshmen and sophomores, in addition to several middle school students taking the part of orphans. The role of Annie, meanwhile, went to Hannah Kleist. “I’m a sophomore, so it was kind of a shock to get a lead role, and I’m kind of proud,” says Kleist.

She adds that she and her cast-mates are enjoying rehearsals so far, “Everything is going really well. I haven’t seen people this excited, cast-wise, in a really, really long time, and we’ve all put a lot into it choreography-wise and set-wise, and it’s fantastic.”

Performances will be held at 6:30 p.m. this Friday and Saturday and at 2:00 p.m. this Sunday. Tickets are $6 for adults and $5 for students. Admission is free for children five and under.