Monrovia Unified Partners with Community Theater to Bring ‘Annie’ to the Stage

Richard Seymour and Naomi Stone play Daddy Warbucks and Annie in Monrovia’s Theater production of “Annie,” opening Friday, Dec. 7. – Courtesy photo / MUSD

Monrovia Unified students will join a cast of professional actors, singers, and dancers in December for the theatrical production of “Annie,” Monrovia Theatre’s 12th professional show to be held at the Louise K. Taylor Performing Arts Center.

The Louise K. Taylor Performing Arts Center is a Monrovia Unified School District facility on the campus at Monrovia High School. The community productions are sponsored by Monrovia Unified and provide opportunities for students to participate in a professional production on stage.

The cast of “Annie” – based on the popular Harold Gray comic strip “Little Orphan Annie” – will comprise 22 adults and 25 elementary and middle school girls.

“I am so excited to be playing Kate in the production,” fourth-grader Sofia Grace Federico said. “This is my third time doing a professional production, and I am always so grateful for the chance to grow and learn from very experienced directors, cast members, and staff. It’s hard work, but I’m having a blast rehearsing with old and new friends.”

Showtimes are 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8; and 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9 at the Louise K. Taylor Performing Arts Center is located at 845 W. Colorado Blvd. in Monrovia.

“This is the perfect show to get you in the holiday spirit with memorable songs, along with beautiful sets, costumes, and a 16-piece live orchestra,” said Patrick Garcia, Monrovia Unified’s director of performing arts. “We are so proud that our Monrovia Unified kids are able to participate.”

The community productions are cast with Monrovia students, as well as professional actors, singers, and dancers from the San Gabriel Valley and the greater Los Angeles area. Students who are interested in the technical side of theater work with industry professionals on: lighting, set design, sounds, and front-of-house operations.

“These productions provide mentoring opportunities for our students and give them the chance to work with professionals in the field,” Board President Terrence Williams said. “Our students gain knowledge and skills by participating in a quality theatrical experience.”

The production will be directed by Keely Milliken, musically directed by Graham Jackson, and choreographed by Alison Hooper.

“Monrovia Unified is always pursuing new opportunities for students,” Superintendent Katherine Thorossian said. “With Monrovia Theatre, our students are able to dive into the arts and participate in professional productions that hone their skills, boost self-confidence, and highlight their talents.”