By turning the idea of Harold Gray’s ‘Little Orphan Annie’ into a musical play, International School Dhaka (ISD) Primary has presented its production of Annie KIDS.
The show, which places Annie, Daddy Warbucks, and Annie’s dog, Sandy, in New York City during the Depression, took place on the ISD Auditorium Stage recently.
As an infant, Annie had been abandoned on the front steps of the New York City Municipal Orphanage with a note from her parents promising to return for her someday. Life in the orphanage had been rough under the strict hand of Miss Hannigan, but Annie’s life was about to change.
Billionaire Oliver Warbucks invites Annie to spend Christmas with him in his mansion, and together, they each discover new happiness. Warbucks soon decides he wants to adopt Annie, but when he learns about her dream of finding her parents and the secret of the half-locket she has treasured for so long, he sets his feelings aside and orders an exhaustive search for Annie’s parents.
With the support and guidance of ISD teachers and staff, over 75 students from Grade 1 to Grade 5 have sang, acted and danced their hearts out to bring the story of Annie and her friends to life. The set designed by local artist Md Elias Hossain, transported the audience to New York City 1933.
The costumes designed Minnat Khan, Lucy Drury, Dino Halder, and Manik Mia brought to life the variety of unique characters that makes the play Annie so memorable.
Director Carla St Louis shared, “It’s been incredible to watch the kids on their journey, learning new skills, making new friends, and most importantly being a part of something that they will remember for the rest of their lives.”
The community at ISD has been preparing for this production for over 3 months.
Director of Performing and Visual Art at the International School Dhaka, Stacy Ohrt-Billingslea, said, “Bringing Annie to the stage has been an incredible collaborative experience.
In the play, Annie learns to trust, creating new friendships and discovers the support of her community. I am so fortunate to work with an incredible team of students, teachers, staff, administration and parents, who are committed to the Arts at ISD.”
