This year Bedford Middle School was able to return to their in-person performances. On Dec. 3, 4 and 5 they performed Annie. With a total of four shows, the students and staff have worked for several months to put this performance together. The play was directed by Ryan Smith, who is the co-director of the Bedford Acting Group, and assistant director Sabrina Parrini. This lively and entertaining musical consists of detailed sets, catchy tunes and even a real life dog.
The orphans opened the show with the well known song, "It's The Hard-Knock Life." Their strong vocals paired with the strategic usage of props made this scene incredibly entertaining and amusing.
When Annie, played by Cat Betit during the Dec. 3 performance, runs away to find her parents, she stumbles upon a stray dog. Bedford Acting Group worked with William Berloni, an expert in animal behavior and training for theater, to use a real,well trained dog play Sandy. This is the same dog that was a part of the 2014 version of Annie which featured Quvenzhane Wallis, Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz.
Another lead part of Annie, the comedic and crazy Ms.Hannigan, was well played by Kasey Feeley during the Dec. 3 show. The irrational and manipulative character adds a funny touch to her character which would otherwise be seen as cruel.
Mr. Warbucks was played by Will McCrea, he fulfills the role of evolving from a cold hearted money loving man to become endeared by this orphan. Watching Annie and Mr. Warbucks' bond grow throughout the play added a sentimental component which brings light to the, at times, dark storyline.
A crowd pleasing scene was “Easy Street” featuring Rooster, Lily St. Regis and Ms. Hannigan. The combination of their clean dancing and expressive voices made this scene entertaining and engaging.
This happily ever after leaves the show with a satisfying ending. Overall, the Bedford Acting Group did an outstanding job with this play, and it was so great to see them return to in person shows after a year modified for COVID precautions.