South Brunswick Theater Group Presents 'Annie'

After a rough month in South Brunswick, the whole township could use a little sun.

So this weekend Daddy Warbucks, Miss Hannigan and the iconic red-headed orphan herself will help bring some joy to the township during performances of the renowned play "Annie" on Friday and Saturday. The local New Jersey Repertory Theatre will bring talented performers from the area out to act, dance and sing some of the classic songs throughout multiple weekend shows.

"I really like that I get to act with a dog, first of all, because that's so cool," said Jill Grzelak, who plays the lead role of Annie. "This is my favorite show, so getting to play Annie is a dream come true. I love how cheery she is and is never negative. She's a nice person who's caring, generous and happy all the time."

Jill isn't the only cast member getting to play a dream role, as eighth-grader Chris Swierczek gets to step into the shoes of Daddy Warbucks.

"I've always wanted to play this role, but people were telling me I'd have to shave my head and I don't want to," Chris said. "But it's fun to play this rich guy and have a house where servants all tend to you. It's going to be a really fun show."

With a cast of mostly younger performers, tenth-grader Sydney Miller said she enjoyed getting to work with some of the actors who are new to the stage.

"I liked being able to spend some time with the younger kids, because they're great girls," she said. "Miss Hannigan is a fun role to play because it's very comedic and fun to play it. There's a lot of funny moments and overall it's a very talented cast. A lot of people know this show and saw it as a child, so this is a great way to see it again."

The cast also includes Jessi Heyer, Sammie Resnick, Maddy Schmidt, Frankie Marrone and more.

The New Jersey Repertory Theatre will present "Annie" on Nov. 23 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. and on Nov. 24 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Crossroads South Middle School, located at 195 Major Road in Monmouth Junction.

Tickets can be purchased at the door for $10.