The Centerville High School theater Department opened the 2025 to 2026 year with the production of Annie, featuring student performers from every grade level. The title role was brought to life by senior Antonella Foschi, who was supported by an enthusiastic ensemble of cast members from all different grades.
Director McGee’s fresh take on a classic story was enhanced by the involvement of younger performers from throughout the Centerville pyramid. Younger students joined the cast as orphans or other ensemble roles. This inclusion added charm to the production and showed Centerville theaters commitment to nurturing the next generation of performers.
Several performers delivered particularly memorable performances, including those stepping onto the stage for the first time. Jacob O’campo, who portrayed Rooster, brought natural charisma to the role. Although he came in with experience in dancing and singing rather than acting, he confidently embodied his character and impressed us with his vocal performance.
Another standout was Kylie Henryhand as Miss Hannigan. Taking on the role of a villain can be challenging, but her sharp comedic timing, expressive acting, and strong vocals created a Miss Hannigan that was both uniquely her own and thoroughly entertaining.
One of the most impressive aspects of this year’s production was the use of a live student Orchestra, which replaced the pre-recorded tracks that are typically used in student theater. Musicians from both Orchestra and Band came together to play the show’s music live which elevated every scene. The handcrafted sound demonstrated the remarkable music talent within Centerville’s music programs in tandem with the remarkable student talent in Centerville theater.
The show’s technical design also deserves recognition. One aspect that stood out were the spotlights along the side of the stage depicting New York City. When speaking with Katie Powderly, lighting technician, we found out that these are created by colored gels and plastic stencils placed over the spotlight lens. This technique helped establish the setting and enhance the visual storytelling.
Not everything went perfectly, however, throughout the show there were periods of microphone feedback that distracted from the actor’s performances. Microphone technician Jayla Eddy explained that the program struggles with funding and doesn’t have the budget for new audio equipment. This issue highlights an area where community donations or administrative support could make a meaningful difference for the theater program.
A heartwarming surprise came in the form of Sandy, played by Tyra, a real 2 legged dog. Tyra has not only appeared in “People” magazine, worked with Hotwheels and Juicy Brewing Company, she is also a seasoned actress, appearing in Fairfax City Theater’s production of Legally Blonde. Tyra cannot use her 2 front legs and moved with the help of wheels, despite appearing in only a few scenes ,she stole our hearts every time she rolled onto stage and prompted waves of applause and oohs and ahhs from the audience.
Tyra, A.K.A, Sandy (wheeled_up_pup on Instagram)
When speaking with cast members after the show, one word came up over and over again: hope. This is what they wanted the audience to leave with. We truly believe they succeeded. From hope for a two legged dog, elementary school performers, and Centreville Theater’s future, we left feeling like the sun would come out tomorrow.
