“Just thinking about, tomorrow” is more than just an apt lyric for CYT Tri-Valley – right now, it’s likely the vibe of the entire youth theater troupe as the opening performance of its production of “Annie” arrives this weekend.
The catchy tunes and heartfelt story of the stage musical about red-headed (and red-dressed) orphan Annie is coming the next two weekends to the Bankhead Theater courtesy of CYT Tri-Valley, the resident children’s theater company for the downtown Livermore venue.
“It’s been a joy to work with our cast of talented, young actors on this exuberant and beloved musical,” director Lana Ivashin-King said in a press release as rehearsals were winding down.
“I am sure our audiences will be moved by the honesty and spirit that our actors bring to their performances, and by the story’s enduring message of HOPE,” Ivashin-King added. “This show is a celebration of the radiance and resilience of children, and such a special one. CYT is thrilled to offer another opportunity for families to enjoy live theater together. It will delight all ages.”
Not only will young actors be taking on all of the famous roles in CYT’s “Annie” production, but they will be accompanied by a live student orchestra over the course of the six shows.
The award-winning musical by Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin – based on the “Little Orphan Annie” comic strip that debuted in the 1920s and later adapted to a popular movie version in 1982 – follows Annie, a bold and optimistic orphan navigating a difficult existence in Miss Hannigan’s orphanage only to have a life of possibilities opened after meeting and moving in with billionaire Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks.
The show features famous songs like “It’s the Hard-Knock Life” and “Tomorrow”.
“Annie” is the fall, full-length production for CYT Tri-Valley – designed to provide “a well-rounded theatrical experience for actors and families”, troupe reps said.
Also with an eye on giving back, the company’s High School Youth Pursuing Excellence (HYPE) leadership team has organized a twin bed sheet donation drive during the production, benefiting Bay Area Rescue Mission and helping out fellow youth who aren’t as lucky as Annie.
“We aren’t just collecting sheets,” HYPE student Luke Scott-Gonzalez said. “We are spreading warmth and showing that if we work hand-in-hand, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.”
A physical donation bin will be available at the Bankhead (darker colors are preferred but not required), or attendees can scan the QR code for the Amazon wishlist page.
“Annie” opens on Saturday (Nov. 1) at 1 p.m., followed by a 6:30 p.m. performance that night and a matinee at 1 p.m. Sunday (Nov. 2). The same schedule continues on the second weekend, Nov. 8-9. For tickets and more information, go to livermorearts.org.
Police: Mother, son killed in shooting in neighborhood near Ken Mercer Sports ParkFebruary 18, 2026 5:47 pm