CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The Charleston Light Opera Guild is staging the classic Broadway musical Annie at the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences. This marks the fifth production of the beloved show by the guild, offering a wholesome, family‑focused evening of music and drama.
Local Cast Brings Story to Life
Caroline Griffith stars as the titular orphan, Annie, a spirited red‑haired girl searching for her parents. Griffith said, “My parents and my voice teacher encouraged me to do this, and now I’m here. I tried out for one of the orphans – anybody – and I got Annie, and I was really excited.”
Taylor Shaw portrays the cantankerous Miss Hannigan, drawing inspiration from Carol Burnett’s 1982 film performance. Shaw explained, “Carol Burnett’s one of my idols, and I used to watch that when I was a kid. Once you get the costume, wig and makeup on, you really become them.”
Eric Hudnall takes on the role of billionaire Oliver Warbucks, noting the character’s emotional journey: “He’s certainly rich in a lot of worldly ways, but he’s got an empty place in his heart. That’s part of the story, how Oliver figures out that he has that hole and he needs something to fill it with, with adopting a child.”
Director Reflects on the Production’s History
Director Nina Denton Pasinetti recalls that the first time she directed Annie for the guild was five productions ago. “I’ve done all five of them and I’ve done them all with our musical director John Marshall,” Pasinetti said. She added that this production is the first the guild’s accompanist, David Patrick, has ever seen.
Pasinetti emphasized the show’s uplifting message, urging residents of all ages to attend. “This is such an uplifting show, from the music to the message, and it just makes everybody happy. So bring your children and come out and see this. Even if you don’t have children, you will love it,” she said.
Performance Details
The production runs over two weekends, opening Friday and continuing through Sunday, November 8. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 p.m., while Sunday shows start at 2 p.m. Tickets are available through the Clay Center’s website.
For families seeking wholesome entertainment that celebrates hope, perseverance, and community spirit, the Charleston Light Opera Guild’s Annie offers a timeless story with local talent at its heart.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
