Over 100 students from Little Flower School and St. Aloysius School, both in Springfield, took to the stage for three evening performances of Annie, Jr. on April 29, 30 and May 1. Additionally, school faculty members and students were treated to a premiere daytime performance that week.Michael Jones, who teaches music at both schools, directed the musical. Students from kindergarten through eighth grade auditioned for the play and then practiced for eight weeks. Practices were held at both schools and the performances were held in the Little Flower School gym. Over 1,000 tickets were sold and the money raised from the production will be used to further expand the music programs at both schools.
Jean Kennedy, principal of St. Aloysius, said she was literally speechless when she saw the first performance. “I was just amazed when I saw the entire production for the first time. I couldn’t even talk — it was just so great,” she said. “All of the children fit their parts so well.”
“This production could not have been successful without the cooperation, dedication and support of the staff, students and parents of both schools,” said Carissa Cantrell, principal of Little Flower. “This is what happens when two great Catholic schools come together.”