Springfield Kid Starring In 'Annie, Jr.'

SPRINGFIELD, PA – A Springfield-area kid will take the stage next week as part of the Upper Darby Summer stage's production of "Annie, Jr."

Dylan Rooney of Springfield will play Oliver "Daddy" Warbucks in the upcoming production.

Productions will be held July 5, July 6, and July 7 at 10:30 a.m. at the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, 601 N. Lansdowne Ave., Drexel Hill. A special evening show will be held at 7:30 p.m. July 6.

Katie Till of Newtown Sqaure and Kristina Goldhorn of Marple will star as Annie and Miss Hannigan, respectively. Grace Farrell, Warbuck's secretary, will be played by Upper Darby's Rylee Curry. Molly Murphy of Havertown will play Annie's dog, Sandy.

Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, “Annie, Jr.” is a story about friendship and the power of a positive attitude. Set in New York City in the 1930s, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a difficult childhood. With the support of her friends Annie is determined to find her parents who left her in the hands of the nasty Miss Hannigan. In the end kindness beats all evils as Annie finds a loving home with with Oliver Warbucks, his secretary, Grace Farrell, and our favorite pooch Sandy.

Tickets range from $8 to $12 and members of The Upper Darby Performing Arts Center will save $1 on tickets.

Tickets can be purchased online here or by calling the box office at (610) 622-1189.

Shows will be about one hour with no intermission. Parking is free. The show is recommended for ages four and up.

Free babysitting will be available in the lobby for those who may be too young to sit quietly through the entire show.

"The show itself asks the question: Can positivity and a sunny disposition take you through hard times," Director Bonnie Baldini said. "A lot of people will really resonate with that message and Annie’s enduring spirit, connecting with others to support the underdog."

Prior to the children’s performances young audience members can enjoy pre-show activities and a meet-and-greet with characters after each show. Autographs and pictures are encouraged

Image via Upper Darby Performing Arts Center