If you sucker for a good rags-to-riches story and have some time to spare this month, the KZN Young Performers Project is bringing the iconic Broadway hit “Annie” to The Playhouse in Durban, and yes, there’s real dog in the show too!
Durban, South Africa (03 July 2025) – Many of us are familiar with the musical about a plucky, optimistic 11-year-old orphan named Annie and her adventurous quest for a bright new life outside of the walls of Miss Hannigan’s dreary orphanage.
Now, the KZN Young Performers Project, which has been making musical magic since 2001, is bringing this widely adored Broadway story to new life at The Playhouse in Durban from 4 – 13 July.
The Depression-era musical tells the story of Annie, a little girl with big dreams (Kaitlyn Rex) and her faithful companion, Sandy, a show-stealing golden retriever, Lucy, and yes, there will be a real dog in the stage production!
As her journey unfolds, Annie is chosen to stay for one week with the famous billionaire Oliver ‘Daddy’ Warbucks (Daniel Mayiza) and his charming secretary, Grace Farrell (Chloe Marot). One week turns into many, and the only person standing in the way of Annie`s bright future is the greedy Miss Hannigan, the gin-soaked ruler of the orphanage (Grace McIlroy); her wicked no good brother Daniel ‘Rooster’ Hannigan, (Nathan Kruger – professional performer) and his girlfriend, Lily St. Regis (Jenna Van Eyssen).
The whole cast comprises 120 talented performers, including a double cast of senior primary youngsters performing as orphans.
It’s the rags-to-riches feel-good story that celebrates hope, family and resilience, featuring some great show-stopping numbers including Tomorrow, Hard Knock Life, You’re Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile, Maybe, Little Girls and Easy Street.
The production team for Annie sees Daisy Spencer in the director’s chair, with musical direction by Des Govender, choreography by Evashnee Pillay, costume design and props by Kathy and Dominic Singery, sound design by Anthony Govender and lighting by Dylan Heaton.
What makes this show even more special is that there will be a “relaxed” performance on Friday, 4 July, designed for people with sensory challenges and different needs to feel welcome and comfortable in a supportive environment.
“We recognise that traditional theatre settings can sometimes present challenges for individuals who require a more accommodating environment. In response to this need, we are pleased to offer a relaxed performance of Annie the Musical. During this specially designated show, we will maintain a partially lit auditorium and our ushers will not enforce traditional etiquette rules,” says Des Govender, who heads the YPP Project.
“This thoughtful approach aims to create a welcoming space for patrons who may not typically feel at ease in a conventional theatre setting. We invite individuals and families who would benefit from a more relaxed atmosphere to join us for this unique performance. Our goal is to share the magic of live theatre with a broader audience and provide an inclusive experience for all.”
This is the YPP team’s second production, coming hot on the heels of Shrek, which had a season in the new Milkwood Theatre, and in the final quarter, there will be a still-to-be-announced festive season production.
If this sounds like just the dose of unadulterated joy you need, tickets are available through Webtickets and Pick n Pay stores nationwide. For more information email yppdurban@gmail.com
Sources: Supplied
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