It’s been a blockbuster Broadway sensation several times over. Now, for the 2025 festive season, Annie––one of the world’s most beloved musicals––is hitting the stage at Richmond’s Gateway Theatre. The tale of the plucky young orphan overcoming the challenges of her “hard knock life” is the perfect family-friendly holiday show. And there’s even a real-life, highly lovable dog to add to the fun!

 

The story of the spirited young girl in 1930s New York––escaping cruel Miss Hannigan’s orphanage, meeting billionaire Oliver Warbucks and having lots of colourful adventures en route––has charmed audiences since it first opened to huge acclaim in 1977. But as Gateway’s Executive Artistic Director Barbara Tomasic explains, there’s much more to this show than a simple rags-to-riches narrative.

 

“Annie is such a heartwarming story about hope, family and the power of kindness,” says Tomasic. “And it celebrates the idea that sometimes you have to be brave––and go beyond what you think you know––to find your real family.”

 

Soaring songs

 

It’s also brilliantly entertaining, she adds. “Annie is filled with memorable music that delights audiences. There’s nothing better than hearing kids and adults humming the songs as they leave the theatre, bringing a little piece of the magic home with them.” And those famous toe-tapping songs include several solid gold classics, from “Tomorrow” and “Maybe” to “It’s the Hard Knock Life.”

 

Tomasic especially loves “Tomorrow,” regarded by many as the show’s signature song. “It perfectly captures Annie’s optimism––and it leaves everyone in the theatre feeling hopeful and uplifted,” she says. “But “It’s the Hard Knock Life” is also a huge fan favourite. It’s so playful and catchy, and it’s a great showcase for the dancing talents of our youth performers and the wonderful work of our award-winning choreographer, Nicol Spinola.”

 

Amazing cast––pooch included

 

Blending exuberant young performers and top-notch professional artists is a popular tradition at Gateway holiday shows, says Tomasic. “Our Annie is played by the talented Azaleah Korn, alongside Jennifer Copping as the infamous Miss Hannigan and Charlie Gallant as our Oliver Warbucks. And they’re joined by a wonderful ensemble of energetic kids and additional adult performers.”

 

But one particular superstar role will have audiences gasping with delight throughout the show’s three-week run. “We are very excited to have three real dogs sharing the part of Sandy for our Annie production,” says Tomasic, adding that working with each of the tail-wagging canine thespians has been a great experience for the rest of the cast and crew.

 

“For the first time in Gateway’s history, we held dog auditions to find our perfect Sandy. Alongside director Josh Epstein, we partnered with Becks from Pooch Positive––a BC SPCA AnimalKind–accredited trainer––to find dogs with the perfect mix of confidence, calm temperament and stage presence. We can’t wait for our audiences to experience the magic––and maybe some cute tricks––of seeing a live dog on stage!”

 

Why Annie?

 

Audiences, of course, have lots of choices when it comes to selecting holiday shows around Metro Vancouver. But Tomasic believes Gateway’s production stands out from the crowd. “We’re offering a classic musical experience with a highly talented local cast. Plus, our holiday programming is designed for families to come together and create lasting memories––it’s a local festive tradition that our audiences have embraced for many years.”

 

And Gateway is also offering lots of extra-inviting ways to experience the show this season. Specific performances include wine tastings, sweet treats, tea matinees and even a New Year’s Eve champagne toast. There’s also a VocalEye Live Audience Description show as well as a popular Relaxed Performance that’s adapted for people with disabilities, neurodivergence or sensory sensitivities and is also great for families and first-time theatregoers.

 

It’s all part of Gateway’s efforts to make their holiday shows especially warm and welcoming for everyone. And Annie is the ideal production for that. “This show is for anyone who enjoys an exciting, moving, feel-good story with memorable songs, a great sense of humour and lots of dazzling performances,” says Tomasic. “And since it embodies the holiday spirit of generosity, kindness and inclusion, it really is the perfect way to celebrate the season.”

 

If you go: Annie is on stage at Gateway Theatre from December 11 to January 3. Tickets start at $43, and there is even a 2-for-1 special on December 16. The theatre is located at 6500 Gilbert Road, Richmond. For more information and to book your tickets, visit the show’s official event page.

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