Final Weekend: Critics Cheer Annie at Rose Center Theater
- Rose Center Theater
- Sep 23
- 3 min read
“Tomorrow” Shines Bright in Westminster
The Rose Center Theater’s dazzling production of Annie has already captured the hearts of sold-out audiences, and with just one weekend left, September 26–28, theatergoers have one final chance to experience the joy, laughter, and hope that this timeless Broadway musical delivers.
Angela Hatcher of the Westminster Herald Journal calls the show an
“incredibly delightful ‘feel good’ musical that reminds us once again to have hope and optimism in a world filled with turmoil and uncertainty.”
With nearly 50 cast members filling the Rose’s expansive stage, Hatcher praises the visually stunning sets, colorful projections, and spirited choreography by Diane Makas and Jennifer Simpson-Matthews.
Annie’s Heart and Hope
Alternating in the role of Annie are two extraordinary young talents: Everly Marie Guerra and Ava Madison Gray. On opening night, Hatcher saw Guerra, noting her “powerful singing voice and heartwarming stage presence,” and that her radiance embodies Annie’s unshakable positivity. Both young actresses lead the show with confidence beyond their years, proving why Annie remains one of the most beloved roles in musical theater.
And of course, Sandy the dog (played by Kipling Karol) proves to be a charming scene-stealer every time he bounds onstage.
Standout Performances
As the wealthy tycoon Daddy Warbucks, Chris Caputo brings a commanding presence with surprising tenderness, while Kristin Caputo as Grace Farrell provides warmth, elegance, and quiet romantic undercurrents. Together, Hatcher describes their partnership as “magical.”
Comic relief abounds with Karen Rymar’s scene-stealing Miss Hannigan, played with drunken mischief and razor-sharp timing, alongside Vincent Aniceto as the magnetic Rooster and Colette Peters as the delightfully over-the-top Lily St. Regis. Their trio number, “Easy Street,” had audiences roaring with laughter and applause.
Other standouts include Edward Bangasser’s dignified portrayal of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and seven-year-old Naomi June, who delights as the youngest orphan, Molly.
Why Annie Still Matters in 2025
First staged in the late 1970s, Annie was born during a time of social unrest, rising prices, and national uncertainty. Nearly fifty years later, its message feels just as urgent. As Hatcher writes, “We find ourselves in the midst of 2025, when once again, we could use a big dose of joy, sanguinity, confidence and perhaps a little cheering up.”
Through unforgettable songs like “It’s the Hard Knock Life” and “Tomorrow,” the cast of Annie proves that optimism, resilience, and hope never go out of style. Under the direction and musical leadership of Tim Nelson, the Rose Center Theater’s production feels fresh, alive, and bursting with energy.
A Must-See for Families
One of the strongest testaments to this production came not from a critic, but from the youngest members of the audience. Hatcher noted that while children fidgeted in their seats before the show, once the curtain rose,
“the children were all quiet and seemed completely mesmerized.”
For families looking to share the magic of live theater, Annie is the perfect introduction.
Last Chance to See Annie
With tickets already in high demand, now is the time to secure seats before the curtain falls on September 28. Final performances are this weekend only, and with thunderous ovations at every show, this is a production you don’t want to miss.
📅 Final Weekend: September 26–28, 2025
📍 Rose Center Theater, 14140 All American Way, Westminster, CA
🎟 Tickets at www.rosecentertheater.com/annie | Leave a message at 714-793-1150 ext. 1
Photo Credit: Ryan Salazar (@ryansalazar)
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