Lampeter Strasburg High School, (LSHS) 1600 Book Road, Lancaster, will present "Annie" as its spring musical on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 2, 3 and 4. Each night will have a 7 p.m. performance, and there will also be a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday.

"Annie" is based on the 1924 comic strip "Little Orphan Annie," which takes place during the Great Depression. The story follows a young orphan named Annie who is adopted by a rich businessman in order to make himself appear philanthropic. The pair unexpectedly fosters a close familial bond, and Annie's contagious optimism spreads across the country.

LSHS faculty members cited a variety of reasons they selected "Annie" for this year's spring musical. The play conveys a message of hope in difficult times, which resonated with the show's director, Kevin Ditzler. "Once theaters opened back up after the COVID-19 pandemic, we found that fewer students were auditioning for plays and audiences were smaller," Ditzler said. "We thought it would be a great opportunity to bring kids in with such a classic piece, and parents can bring their kids to experience the arts."

The set for "Annie" provides a unique challenge for the crew, as it changes quickly and drastically; scenes take place anywhere from the streets of New York City to a dilapidated orphanage to the mansion of a billionaire. Ditzler noted that the production team has prepared for the show by renting and assembling different sets while keeping in mind the historical period in which the production is set. The cast of the show has been honing its impersonations of historic figures such as Franklin Delano Roosevelt for the play.

"When you do a classic piece set in a time period, it limits the choreography, but it identifies a style for the show," Ditzler said. "It's an opportunity to expose students to new shows, actors and movies that they can study for their roles."

The cast and crew members of "Annie" remarked that they have been enjoying the rehearsals for the show. Due to the play's origins as a comic strip, "Annie" uses a unique and upbeat style. "The show makes you feel good. We're all humming the songs when we leave and are excited to come back to continue the process," Ditzler said.

Tickets for "Annie" will be offered at a discounted price to students and senior citizens and may be purchased at the door or in advance at https://tinyurl.com/annielsa.