Why ANNIE is important to me

When Wasatch Theatre Company announced we would be doing ANNIE the musical, some people reacted, "What? This seems so out of character for Wasatch!"  It's true--we tend toward pieces that are infrequently done in Salt Lake, including world and Utah premieres.  However, when the opportunity to co-produce ANNIE with the South Jordan Arts Council and Sandbox Theatre arose, I (as the Executive Director of WTC) couldn't resist.

My dear son Jayden came to live with me in 2012.  He was 8 at the time.  I remember that his favorite singing artist was Michael Jackson.  He hated peas and wind (he reported to me one day).  He had a ton of personality and a lot of love to share with the world.  And his favorite movie?  Annie.  When Jayden turned 10, the new movie of ANNIE was released.  We took a group of kids to the theatre to celebrate Jayden's birthday and to enjoy the new version of ANNIE.  The movie and the experience were a hit.  

What drew Jayden to ANNIE?  Well, he was in foster care for the first part of his life.  I'm sure he could relate to the character of an orphan.  I'm sure he also connected with the story's positivity and to the notion that adults can be kind and giving.  

Jayden has moved on from ANNIE.  But I haven't.  I still think it's a great story, and I can't hear about it or see it without thinking of Jayden.  

I am going to bring Jayden to the play.  I think this will be the first time he has seen ANNIE in person.  I hope the themes of positivity still ring true.  

I can't speak for our collaborators on this project, but for our WTC contribution to ANNIE this summer, I am dedicating it to my wonderful son Jayden, who has brought such an enormous amount of joy to my life.  Like Daddy Warbucks, I am balder now.  Also like Daddy Warbucks, I can't imagine my life without this wonderful young person in it.  He has made my life better in every way.  I love you, Jayden.