The Sligo Fun Company is thrilled to announce its upcoming production of the beloved
musical “Annie,” set to take the stage at the Hawk’s Well Theatre from November 5th – 9th.
Be sure to get your tickets soon for this heartwarming journey through the world of Annie, the
optimistic orphan whose unwavering spirit and determination inspire all around her. With
memorable songs like “Tomorrow” and “It’s a Hard Knock Life,” this classic tale of hope and
resilience is sure to delight audiences of all ages.
Directed by Mary MacDonagh, this production features a talented cast of local performers,
including Lauren Mooney (Annie) , John Larkin (Daddy Warbucks), Angela McGuire (Miss
Hannigan), Sarah Dufficy (Grace Farrell -Warbucks’s Secretary), Peter Kenny (Rooster
Hannigan), Terri Brennan (Lily St Regis) , Brendan Tierney (Bert Healy) , Hugh O’Neill
(Drake the Butler) and Michael Guckian (President Roosevelt).
As well as the main roles, there is a huge cast of local children (over 60 in total) ranging from
7-14 years old. Over 150 children from local primary and secondary schools auditioned for
the parts with the final cast being chosen after a number of weeks of workshops. It’s a real
family affair, as many of the orphans have parents who have taken part in other Sligo Fun
Company shows as children themselves and also as adults. Some parents of orphans are
also in this show. There are six mother daughter combinations along with a father and son,
a brother and sister and several sister-sister combinations in the cast.
There is also a teenage ensemble with eight very talented singers and dancers and a cast of
20 adults who have ensemble and lead roles. Many of the cast may have had lead roles in
the past and who would take a smaller role or an ensemble role in other productions.
Director Mary MacDonagh said; “ Since the foundation of the Fun Company in 1983, our
ethos has been to provide opportunities for people from all ages and all backgrounds to
become involved in theatre in a non-competitive environment. It’s always fun and always
free for everyone to take part. Our community based theatre supports our young performers
and those with more years behind them. For this production, we have lots of cast members
who have never performed in musical theatre before, as well as some returning familiar
faces”.
For over 40 years the Fun Company has worked as a team to foster theatre skills and to
encourage growth and development both personally and professionally in the community.
Many participants have gained from their experiences in the Fun Company and some have
gone on to pursue successful professional careers in theatre, television and the music
industry.
The Fun Company’s first production was “The Witness” in 1983. It’s estimated the Sligo Fun
Company group has produced over 100 shows with many memorable shows each year and
sometimes had three productions in one calendar year.
“We are very excited for this upcoming production. We have an amazing cast, spectacular
choreography lined up as well as a mind blowing set prepared and we have no doubt the
people of Sligo will love the shows. It’s a show for all ages, so we’re encouraging people to
make it a family night out”, said Mary.
Many of the shows are already sold out, so be sure to call in to the Hawk’s Well Theatre or
visit www.hawkswell.com for tickets.
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