"Annie" Comes to Life at O.C. Music Pier

By Lesley Graham Although the snow is on the ground, the sun will come out tomorrow. Or at least inside the Ocean City Music Pier it will. The Ocean City Theatre Company is gearing up for its winter production of the Broadway musical “Annie.” Join Annie, Daddy Warbucks, Miss Hannigan and the rest of the cast in the classic rags-to-riches story that is sure to warm even the coldest hearts this holiday season.  The Broadway musical, adapted from the Harold Gray comic strip “Little Orphan Annie,” includes the well-known classics “It’s the Hard Knocked Life” and “Tomorrow,” which will get adults and children alike singing along to their favorite “Annie” tunes.  Featuring a cast of professional actors and local youth, the musical brings the storied characters to life with fantastic choreographed dance numbers and songs that will have the audience members swaying in their seats. Annie, played by 12-year-old Camryn Schultheis of Upper Township, and her loyal dog Sandy. Camryn Schultheis stars as the title character Annie, commanding the stage with her big voice and charming personality. Schultheis, 12, from Upper Township, is equal parts excited and nervous for the opening night of “Annie.” “Playing Annie is a dream come true,” she exclaimed as she was preparing to run through a dress rehearsal of her performance. Schultheis has been dancing and acting since age six. She is a natural on stage and is enjoying the opportunity to star in the lead role. “I love how smiley and optimistic Annie is,” she said She hopes one day to star on Broadway and if her performance as Annie is any indication, she may indeed see her name in lights. The actors in the roles of Rooster and Miss Hannigan rehearse a musical number. The show promises fun for the whole family, especially during the holiday season. Culminating in a holiday party, highlighted by a giant on-stage Christmas tree, “Annie” delights with its feel good story of one little girl finding her forever family.  Director Shannon Agnew is exited to bring the holiday magic back to Ocean City. This is the second year the Ocean City Theatre Company is putting on a holiday show. After receiving such positive feedback from last year’s performance of “A Christmas Carol,” the OCTC knew it was an important tradition to keep.  There are five showings, with evening performances beginning at 7:30 and matinees at 2 p.m. Dec. 8 and 14 are evening shows, Dec. 9 features a matinee and on Dec. 15 both a matinee and evening show are slated.  Tickets can be purchased at the City Hall Welcome Center at 861 Asbury Ave. or the Roy Gillian Welcome Center on the 9th Street causeway. The cast of "Annie" receives instruction from director Shannon Agnew.