Auditions set for holiday musical ‘Annie’ at The Little Theatre

Auditions for this season’s holiday show, "Annie," will be held Sunday and Monday, Oct. 5 and 6, at The Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County. Registration begins at 6 p.m., and those participating should plan to stay for the entire session. Callbacks, if needed, will be Wednesday, Oct. 8.

Those auditioning for the role of Annie should come prepared to sing "Maybe" and do not need another song. All other auditioners should present a one- to two-minute cut of a musical theater song that matches the style of the show. A piano accompanist will be available for sheet music in the correct key, and Bluetooth will be available for backing tracks. Tracks with vocals will not be accepted.

Auditioners may be asked to cold read from the script and should be available for dance auditions after vocals are finished. Actors auditioning for the orphan roles must be at least eight years old. All other roles will be cast with adults.

Production dates for "Annie" are Friday, Dec. 5 through Sunday, Dec. 14. Rehearsals begin the week of Oct. 12 and will run Sundays through Thursdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

"Annie" tells the story of a young girl left at a shelter whose goal is to find her parents. She proves a challenge for the shelter’s cruel director and is rescued by a kind billionaire who wants to do a good deed. With her dog Sandy and the help of Oliver Warbucks, she finds a new life.

Major roles include Annie, age 10 to 13, mezzo soprano, an orphan with a fiery spirit and big heart who must be a strong singer and actor with excellent stage presence; Oliver Warbucks, 40s to 60s, baritone, a billionaire businessman who is gruff and no-nonsense yet warm and loving toward Annie and needs strong acting and comedic skills; Grace Farrell, 25 to 40, soprano, a mother figure to Annie who is kind with warmth and elegance; Miss Hannigan, 35 to 55, alto able to belt, the disillusioned, bitter alcoholic yet comedic orphanage matron who must have strong comedic timing; and Rooster Hannigan, 25 to 40, tenor or baritone, Miss Hannigan’s underhanded brother, often cast with strong dance skills. About 20 additional parts and an adult ensemble will be cast.

Sponsors for "Annie" are Alley Cats Marketplace, McInturf Realty Christmas in the Park, Dixon Family Dentistry and NAPA Sugarcreek also known as Harrison Auto Parts. Season corporate sponsors are Dover Eagles 515, Roger and Mary Spies and Park Village Health Care Center.

For audition questions, contact the director, David Sparks Lee, at david.lee6462@gmail.com.