Beck Center Presents Encore Of Holiday Blockbuster "Annie" With Donation Drive

Anna Barrett as Annie with Buckley Collier as Sandy.

Photo: Kathy Sandham

By popular demand, Beck Center for the Arts presents the return of "Annie," December 6, 2013 through January 5, 2014 on the Mackey Main Stage. In 2012, Northeast Ohio audiences wholeheartedly responded to the touching story of the spunky orphan determined to find her parents who abandoned her at an orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Hannigan’s evil schemes and finds a new home in the mansion of Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks.

“It’s a much-loved gem among seasoned theatergoers, but more importantly, it’s a fantastic introduction to kids of all ages who will become our audiences of 'tomorrow,'” commented Director Scott Spence. “It’s always amazing to revisit a project where you had a wondrous time collaborating with such talented artists,” said Spence. “You can’t beat getting a chance to do Annie for a second straight year with a terrific mix of returning veterans and superb new talent.”

Anna Barrett returns as “Annie” alongside the Cairn Terrier/Poodle Mix, Buckley Collier, as her lovable mutt Sandy. Inspired by Annie’s decision to save the stray dog Sandy, Beck Center is proud to once again join forces with the Cleveland Animal Protective League. After an incredibly successful donation drive last year, Beck Center is also pleased to be hosting an encore of the “Annie Saved a Stray” campaign. All are welcomed to support this cause by donating essential items that help make the lives of the animals and the Cleveland APL staff APL better.

From pet food to office supplies and everything in between, donated items save the Cleveland APL much-needed funds that can be reserved for animal care and programming. Visit beckcenter.org to access the Cleveland APL Animal Care Wish List. Donations may be dropped off the designated area in Beck Center’s main lobby during the run of "Annie," December 6, 2013 to January 5, 2014.

Tickets for "Annie" are one sale now and matinee performances are selling fast. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Special performances will be held 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 19; matinee-only on Saturday, December 28; and 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. performances on Saturdays, December 14 and January. 4.

Tickets for "Annie" are $29 for adults, $26 for seniors (65 and older), $12 for students (with valid I.D.), and $10 for children (12 and under). An additional $3 service fee per ticket is applied at the time of purchase. Group discounts (4 or more) are available. Purchase tickets online at beckcenter.org or call Customer Service at 216.521.2540, ext. 10. Beck Center for the Arts is located at 17801 Detroit Avenue in Lakewood, just ten minutes west of downtown Cleveland. Free onsite parking is available.

This production of "Annie" is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (mtishows.com) and is sponsored by First Federal Lakewood, West Roofing Systems, Cuyahoga Arts and Culture, and the Ohio Arts Council.