The Sun will Come Out Tomorrow: Annie Takes Center Stage at BFCCPS

By Jennifer Russo

Most people are familiar with the red-headed spitfire of an orphan named Annie, whether it be from the comic book series, the old radio show, the well-loved 1982 movie starring Aileen Quinn, or from a Broadway production. The story follows the poor, fiery, yet charming ten-year-old during the time of the Great Depression, as she dares to escape a New York City orphanage run by a cruel woman who doesn’t like kids, tries to find her parents, and accidentally ends up in the care of one of the wealthiest men in the country. 

The students at the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School (BFCCPS) chose the heartwarming story for their annual musical this year and delivered a wonderful performance that had the audience on the edge of their seats and humming along to songs like “It’s the Hard-Knock Life” and “The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow.”

Charlotte Mantilla did a wonderful job capturing the independent and caring Annie, and Lila Branson nailed the part of Miss Hannigan, who we all have a love/hate relationship with. Mr. Warbucks was played by Jack Renaud, who went from gruff businessman to tender father. Sophia Bourgeois, who played his assistant Grace Farell, did well at showing a patient and elegant air. Petty criminals Rooster and Lily, played by James Jaeggli and Violet MacDonald, had the crowd chuckling with their great facial expressions and bumbling antics.

The rest of the cast played a number of characters, including the orphans, housekeepers, the butler Drake, Officer Ward, Mr. Bundles the laundry man, radio personality Bert Healy, a variety of radio station acts, produce peddlers, a want-to-be New York star, the judge, Sandy the dog, and of course President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

 All of the handmade set pieces and props were very well done, and BFCCPS students played in the orchestra pit, as well as running the lighting and sound, creating digital art for the backdrop screen, helping to direct, and swapping out scenes during the show.

Overall, Annie the Musical was a remarkable success, and audience members were already commenting that they are looking forward to seeing what show the school chooses to do next Spring. Its happy ending left everyone feeling positive, with the message of being hopeful and resilient despite challenges. Congratulations to the students, staff, and crew of the production for delivering another fantastic show!