Hartland Community School drama team to stage Annie

Close to three dozen young thespians take the stage on Nov. 17 and 18 to perform the Hartland Community School production of the popular musical Annie.

Teacher Caroline Fletcher-Allison, one of several directors, said the students, ranging from Grade 5 to 12, have worked hard over the past several weeks to prepare for this year’s drama production.

She said the Hartland school enjoys a strong student commitment to its drama program.

Grade 9 student Ava Doherty, a stage veteran in the school’s drama program since Grade 3, is excited to take on her first lead role as Annie.

A singer and actor, Doherty said she’s comfortable on stage, noting she likes musicals.

“Annie is definitely one of my favourites,” she said.

Fellow Grade 9 student Layla Walton, in the role of Miss Hannigan, also feels at home on stage.

“I’m usually excited, not nervous,” she said.

Like Doherty, Walton is a singer and has been part of the school’s drama program since Grade 3. She also attends drama camp in the summer.

Grade 7 student Nevaeh Wade, who started at Hartland Community School in Grade 2 after moving from Woodstock, Ont., will play the role of Pepper.

While drama requires time and commitment, Wade is happy to devote her extracurricular time to drama.

All three noted they are active in sports and other school activities but are happy to juggle their time to rehearse for the two upcoming performances.

Showtime for both the Friday, Nov. 17 and Saturday, Nov. 18, performances in the HCS Theatre is 7 p.m.

Advanced tickets at $10 each are available at ValuFoods in Hartland and Home Zone Electronics in Woodstock.

In addition to Fletcher-Allison, other directors are Chantal Shaw, Deidre Everett, Amanda Craig, Claire Wright and Julie Allison.

The cast list includes:Annie: Ava DohertyGrace: Jaelle CrouseOlivia Warbucks: Marlee GirdwoodMiss Hannigan: Layla WaltonRooster: William ShawLily: Haylee JohnstonVivian: Grace McCullyMolly: Lily WaltonPepper: Nevaeh WadeDuffy: Ruby MunroJuly: Lily OudotKate: Mackenzie TillOrphan Chorus: Sophia Walton, Sophia Cole, Ali Despres, Kylee Nason, Lily Slipp, Adelynn Nason, Raelyn Drost, Natalie Wright, and Lauren GuthrieWard: Conner BradleyBundles and Roosevelt: Camden LeeDrake: Thomas FosterMrs. Greer: Delilah HallettAnnette: Omelia MerrithewCecille: Quinn BrownHealy and Dog Catcher: Cash HarrisChauffeur: Anna GibersonStar to Be: Sadie MackAdult Chorus: Leah Brown, Elsa AlbrightApple Seller: Graysin NowlanSandy: Owen Guthrie

Jim Dumville, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, River Valley Sun