By Joe Bachman
Multimedia Editor

STEVENS POINT — A local children’s theater will bring the magic of Annie to life this weekend.

Directed by Tori Schultz, Playhouse Theatre Group will present the classic tale of “Annie” at Sentry Theater on July 12-13. While Schultz has directed a production of Annie eight years ago, she felt that it was time for a reprise, as many of the children from that production have moved on.

In fact, the starring role of Annie has come full circle. Anneliese Heese, who appeared eight years ago as a toddler carried on stage by her father in the first production of Annie. She returns to play the role of the iconic redhead eight years later.

Playhouse Theatre Group will perform “Annie” on July 12-13 at Sentey Theater. (Joe Bachman Photo)

This is also the first major musical production since the tragic fire at Springs United Methodist Church fire in March. This served as the rehearsal space for Playhouse.

“Rehearsing a new space has certainly changed the dynamic,” said Schultz. “Having lost so much in the fire we have been starting anew on props, costumes and sound equipment. The loss of our home in lower level in the Springs has been so sad, but we finding so many blessings that have come from the loss.”

The theater has since settled into their new home at the Ben Franklin Auditorium, which has helped the show run more smoothly, according to Schultz. With 113 members in the cast, the space has been quite accompanying.

“We have loved to having the space to spread out at Ben Franklin into the band and choir rooms and in all has made rehearsal run so much smoother and in some ways a better use of rehearsal time.” Schultz added.

A new addition to the cast for the performance is none other than Mayor Mike Wiza. Wiza will play the small role of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. For Wiza, this marks his first stage appearance in decades.

Playhouse Theatre Group will perform “Annie” on July 12-13 at Sentey Theater. (Joe Bachman Photo)

“Every time I show up for rehearsal we’re always having lots of fun. That’s really what it’s about in life. If you can’t have fun, what are you doing it for?” he added.

Wiza states that even with such large cast, there is a plethora of talent that stands out, and will impress audiences of all ages. However, according to Wiza, the key to these kids’ successes goes beyond talent.

“You’ve got motivation and passion, which is 90 percent of any battle,” said Wiza. Even in public service, most of the job is having that passion and motivation — and everything else will fall into place.

“There are some characters, and you can tell the personalities burst when they’re playing their roles. I think the attendees are going to see some really talented individuals.” Wiza said.

Annie: The Musical opens on Friday, July 12 at 7PM with Saturday performances at 2PM and 7PM. Admission is $12.

Be on the look out for new Playhouse Theatre Group events, including the Summer Theatre Intensive coming up on Aug. 5-9 at Ben Franklin for grades 4-8. In addition, they will host Family Fun Fest on Aug. 9. For tickets and more information on all upcoming events, please visit http://www.playhousetheatergroup.com/