Summer Camp: Annie Kids June 22-26, 2026

We are excited to welcome you to our youth theater program! As a parent of a theater student, you may be wondering what to expect from this enriching experience. Following is an overview of our youth theater program, what your child will learn and what you can look forward to during the production.

Our Productions

Our youth theater shows are licensed productions that include high quality musical orchestration recordings and scripts.  The shows are full, age-appropriate productions directed by our professional Directors with years of theater experience.  This is a “teaching program” that is inclusive of all students.  No experience required.  Every student who enrolls is guaranteed a role (or multiple roles).  Auditions are not required to join the production, but auditions are required in order for our Directors to assign roles.  Cold reading is done in the first rehearsal and singing auditions are usually held during the second rehearsal of most productions.  We limit our shows to 27 or fewer students.  If we have more than 27 students we will form an additional cast.  We do this so our Directors can dedicate more time to each student and improve their growth in the theatrical arts.  Multiple casts also provide us a built-in “under study” for every role in every cast should we need to fill a role along the way.  Multiple casts also means more opportunities for leading and secondary roles.  Students will have a great time, make friends, and build relationships while learning and growing in the theatrical arts.

Learning Experience

Participating in a theater production is a comprehensive educational journey. Your child will develop a variety of skills, including:

• Acting Techniques:  Students will learn how to embody their characters, understand script analysis, and deliver lines with emotion and clarity.
• Collaboration:  Theater is a team effort. Your child will work closely with peers, learning the importance of communication, trust, and support in a collaborative environment.
• Creative Expression:  Students will explore their creativity through character development, improvisation, and storytelling, allowing them to express themselves in unique ways.

Costumes

Costumes play a vital role in bringing a production to life.  Costumes are not included in the program fee and must be obtained by the student family.  Most costumes can be purchased for under $50, custom made, or assembled with items around your home, thrift stores, or borrowing from friends and family.  Our Directors and production coordinators will offer guidance and suggestions to help with the look and feel for continuity with the show and other actors and actresses.  In certain situations the school might provide role-specific accessories or props.

Choreography

For productions that include dance or movement, students will learn choreography during rehearsals. They will learn how to integrate movement with their acting, enhancing their performance and adding depth to the storytelling. This aspect of theater encourages physical expression and helps build confidence.

Theater Tech

Behind the scenes, students will gain insight into the technical aspects of theater, including lighting, sound, and set design. They will learn how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere of the production. This knowledge is invaluable, as it fosters an appreciation for the collaborative nature of theater.

Microphones

To ensure that every performance is heard clearly, we provide microphones for each student. This allows them to focus on their performance without worrying about projection, enabling them to deliver their lines with confidence. Students will receive training on how to use the microphones effectively, which is an essential skill in modern theater.

Other Aspects of Theatrical Arts

In addition to acting, choreography, and technical skills, your child will also learn about stage management, audience engagement, improvisation, and the importance of rehearsal discipline. They will experience the thrill of live performance, understanding the hard work and dedication that goes into each show.

Private/Closed Rehearsals

Please note that per licensing contract and in the interest of safety, only actors/actresses, staff, crew, volunteers, and other production coordinators are allowed in the recital hall during rehearsals.

Student Conduct

We strive to create a safe, positive and respectful learning environment for all participants and aim to foster creativity, collaboration, and personal growth while ensuring that all students understand their responsibilities and the expectations of behavior.  We expect students to arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage in the lesson. Respect for the instructor, fellow students, and the learning space is paramount; this includes listening attentively, refraining from disruptive behaviors, and maintaining a positive attitude. Students are encouraged to express themselves and ask questions, but must do so in a manner that is considerate of others. Any behavior that undermines the learning experience, such as excessive talking, distractions, or disrespectful comments, will be addressed promptly. Our goal is to foster a supportive community where every student can thrive and develop their musical talents.

For all our policies please visit our polices page:

https://jieun-lee-music-academy.odoo.com/policies

Length of Show

Kids productions (7 to 12 year olds) are usually a single act show lasting 30 to 40 minute.  Junior productions (5th grade and up) are usually two act shows lasting 60 to 70 minutes with a 15 minute intermission.

Rehearsals

Fishers:  Rehearsals are in The Switch Theatre inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.  Final shows are in same theater.

Carmel:  Rehearsals are in Goodwin Hall inside Meridian Music School.  Spring and Fall shows are held at The Switch Theatre.  Summer camp shows are held in Goodwin Hall.

Auditions

Auditions are not required to participate in our theater programs.  Every student who enrolls in the program is guaranteed a role (perhaps multiple roles).  There is a cold reading audition during the first rehearsal and a singing audition during the second rehearsal.  The songs for the singing audition will be taught during the first rehearsal.  This approach allows our Directors to make the best decision for role assignments.  Our Directors make their decisions based on students’ performance during the first and second rehearsals and which students they believe best fit the unique needs of each character in the show.

Program Fee

Includes the following:

• Script
• Music tracks
• Rehearsals
• Number of Shows
• • Summer Camps:  1 Show
  • Spring & Fall:  2 Shows
  • Summer Teen:  2 Shows
• Show T-Shirt
• Video (only when video license available).  Most shows have video license.

Audio/Video Recording

Please note these programs are copyrighted works of art.  Recording any portion of the show is prohibited, but most (not all) productions come with an optional video recording license. If such license is available we will secure the rights to video record the show.  Our theater in Fishers is equipped with professional recording equipment.  When allowed, we will provide a professionally recorded copy of the final show.

Tech Week

Tech week includes at least one regular rehearsal and one dress rehearsal followed by shows on Friday, Saturday, and/or Sunday.

Call Time

60 to 70 minutes before showtime

Locations

Fishers:  The Switch Theatre inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.
Carmel:  Goodwin Hall inside Meridian Music School

Tickets

Final shows are ticketed events with assigned seating.  We will notify families multiple times before the start of ticket sales so everyone has equal opportunity to purchase tickets.  All sales are final.  NO REFUNDS!  Due to assigned seating and the fact most of our shows sell out, we do not refund ticket purchases.  Purchase tickets here:

Switch Theatre:  https://switchtheatre.simpletix.com
Goodwin Hall:  https://goodwinhall.simpletix.com/

The Switch Theatre

All productions (except Carmel summer camps) take place in The Switch Theatre in Fishers.  This black box style theater is located inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.  With comfortable seating for up to 175, our theater has a raised, 30′ x 20′ stage, theatrical lights and special effects, high quality audio, and back stage green rooms for our young actors and actresses.  When entering the theater you are greeted with a nice lobby featuring a concession stand serving many standard concession candies, cotton candy, popcorn, wide variety of drinks, and other concession items.

Enrollment in our youth theater production guarantees your young actress/actor will be cast in the production -- no audition required.  There is an audition (usually during second rehearsal) that Directors need to determine casting.  Students will receive basic audition prep and guidance before audition day.

How to prepare for an audition.

Preparing for a musical theater audition can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. To set yourself up for success, it’s essential to start with a solid understanding of the material you’ll be performing. Choose a song that showcases your vocal range and acting abilities, and make sure it aligns with the character you’re auditioning for. Spend time analyzing the lyrics and the emotions behind them; this will help you deliver a more authentic and compelling performance. Additionally, practice your song repeatedly, focusing on both technical aspects, such as pitch and rhythm, and expressive elements, like dynamics and phrasing. Remember, confidence is key, so the more prepared you are, the more comfortable you will feel on audition day.

In addition to your song, be ready to demonstrate your acting skills and movement abilities. Many auditions will include a cold reading or a dance combination, so familiarize yourself with the material and be open to direction from the audition panel. Always remember to shake the director's hand when you first meet them; this simple gesture shows professionalism and respect. Warm up your body and voice before the audition to ensure you’re in peak condition. It’s also helpful to research the production and its characters, as this knowledge can inform your choices and help you connect with the material on a deeper level. Finally, remember to bring your unique personality to the audition; casting directors are looking for individuals who can bring characters to life in a way that is fresh and engaging. Embrace the experience, and no matter the outcome, view it as an opportunity to learn and grow as a performer.

Things to Do at Home to Prepare for the Audition:

• Choose Your Song: Select a song that fits the character and showcases your vocal strengths.
• Practice Regularly: Set aside time each day to practice singing your chosen song, focusing on both technique and emotion.
• Learn the Lyrics: Memorize the lyrics thoroughly to ensure you can perform confidently without looking at the music.
• Record Yourself:  Use a phone or camera to record your practice sessions. This will help you identify areas for improvement.
• Work on Acting: Practice delivering the song with emotion and character. Consider how the character would feel and express that in your performance.
• Warm-Up Exercises: Incorporate vocal and physical warm-up exercises into your routine to prepare your body and voice.
• Research the Show: Learn about the musical and its characters to better understand the context of your audition piece.
• Mock Auditions: Have family members or friends act as the audition panel and perform your song for them to simulate the audition experience.
• Prepare Your Outfit: Choose an outfit that is appropriate for the audition and makes you feel confident.
• Stay Positive: Practice positive affirmations and visualization techniques to build your confidence and reduce anxiety before the audition.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to shine in your musical theater audition!

While final shows are ticketed events, there is no mandatory ticket purchase amount.  You are free to buy as many or as few as you like.

The enrollment fee includes the following:

• Rehearsals (Kids -12 weeks; Jr. - 15 weeks)
• Professional script
• Professionally recorded practice song tracks with sing-a-long vocals
• Professionally recorded song tracks with no vocals (used during the shows)
• T-Shirt
• Video:  Recording of final show.  Only when video license is available.  Most shows have a video license

The scene opens on a morning in early December 1933. The Orphans, including Molly, Kate, Tessie, Pepper, July and Duffy are sleeping in the girl's annex of The New York City Municipal Orphanage. Molly is just waking up from a dream and crying out for her mother. The other orphans wake up and begin arguing. Annie, who is eleven, comforts Molly, who begs her to read a note that Annie's parents left when they abandoned her. Pepper reminds the group that they also left Annie one-half of a silver locket and kept the other half with a promise to reclaim her one day. Annie pulls Molly close and sings about the parents she imagines, but has never known. The other Orphans join her ("Maybe"). Thinking about her parents inspires Annie to run away from the orphanage and search for them. She packs a bag and starts to leave when the villainous director of the orphanage, Miss Hannigan, discovers her. Miss Hannigan makes all the Orphans get up to scrub floors and strip beds to "pay" for Annie's misbehavior. As they clean, they complain about the difficult circumstances ("It's the Hard-Knock Life").

In the morning, Bundles, the laundry man, comes to make a pick-up from the orphanage. As Bundles is talking, Annie sneaks into the laundry bag.

Annie is on the streets of NYC when she encounters a stray dog being chased by dogcatchers. She rescues him and expresses her feelings that everything will be fine in the future ("Tomorrow"). When a policeman, Lt. Ward, makes her prove the mutt is her dog, she names him Sandy on the spot and calls the dog to come to her, which – miraculously – he does.

Back at the orphanage, Miss Hannigan expresses her disgust with her lot in life ("Little Girls") just before Lt. Ward returns with the runaway orphan. As Miss Hannigan is threatening Annie, Grace Farrell arrives at the orphanage to tell Ms. Hannigan that Oliver Warbucks wants to invite an orphan to his mansion for Christmas. Grace leaves just as Miss Hannigan's brother, Rooster, arrives with his girlfriend, Lily St. Regis. She shares the news of Annie's pending holiday visit with Warbucks. Rooster, Miss Hannigan and Lily lament their misfortunes ("Easy Street").

Grace brings Annie to the Warbucks mansion and introduces her to the Servants. Annie is in awe of her new surroundings, but she is made to feel completely welcome by Drake and the staff.

As she tours New York City with Warbucks and Grace, she sees the city in a new way ("N.Y.C.") Back at the mansion, Warbucks explains that he would like to adopt Annie. Instead of a happy response, Annie begins to cry. When he learns about her dream of finding her parents and the secret of the half-locket, he promises to search for Annie's parents.

Annie and Warbucks are guests on the Bert Healy radio show, "Hour of Smiles." They make a plea for Annie's parents to return, and Warbucks offers $50,000 to anyone who can prove they are her mother and father. The Orphans are listening to Bert Healy's radio show and sing their own version of the radio theme ("You're Never Fully Dressed without a Smile").

Back at the mansion, Grace has interviewed more than a thousand people claiming to be Annie's parents, but none of them know about the locket, so Warbucks declares his intent to adopt Annie, and Annie accepts. Just then, Drake leads in Rooster and Lily, disguised as Ralph and Shirley Mudge. They appear with the other half of the locket and the birth certificate, announcing their intentions to take Annie home to live with them in New Jersey. Warbucks convinces them to let Annie spend Christmas with him at the mansion, telling them that they may pick up Annie and the check the next day. Grace tells Warbucks that she believes she has seen Mr. Mudge somewhere before.

The next morning, Annie waits apprehensively for the Mudges to claim her ("Maybe – Reprise"). President Roosevelt arrives with the news that the F.B.I. has discovered that Annie's real parents were named David and Margaret Bennett, and they passed away a long time ago. The Mudges are imposters. As Miss Hannigan arrives with the Orphans to celebrate Christmas, Warbucks uncovers the Mudge's true identities. Louis Howe, the president's aide, hauls off Rooster, Lily and Miss Hannigan. Roosevelt declares that this Christmas is going to be the beginning of a wonderful new life... "A New Deal" ("Tomorrow – Reprise").

Annie

Annie is a complex, tough, streetwise urchin who is surprisingly vulnerable when she thinks she might lose what has become most important to her: her newfound "family." Cast an excellent actress who can act motherly, independent, overwhelmed and hopeful. She should be strong vocally and musically and be able to light up the stage in "Tomorrow!"

Gender: female

Vocal range top: D5

Vocal range bottom: A3

Molly

The Orphans are gritty girls that are neglected and vulnerable, yet basically honest and lovable. Cast girls that can have "mischievous" fun together, as well as "sibling style" fights. Each actress should be able to shape her own specific character, be a good singer and visually expressive. Molly is the littlest at age 6.

Gender: female

Vocal range top: B4

Vocal range bottom: A3

Kate

The Orphans are gritty girls that are neglected and vulnerable, yet basically honest and lovable. Cast girls that can have "mischievous" fun together, as well as "sibling style" fights. Each actress should be able to shape her own specific character, be a good singer and visually expressive. Kate is the next-to-youngest at age 7.

Gender: female

Vocal range top: C5

Vocal range bottom: C4

Tessie

The Orphans are gritty girls that are neglected and vulnerable, yet basically honest and lovable. Cast girls that can have "mischievous" fun together, as well as "sibling style" fights. Each actress should be able to shape her own specific character, be a good singer and visually expressive. Tessie is the cry baby at age 11.

Age: 11 to 11

Vocal range top: C5

Vocal range bottom: A3

Pepper

The Orphans are gritty girls that are neglected and vulnerable, yet basically honest and lovable. Cast girls that can have "mischievous" fun together, as well as "sibling style" fights. Each actress should be able to shape her own specific character, be a good singer and visually expressive. Pepper is the toughest at age 12.

Gender: female

Vocal range top: Bb4

Vocal range bottom: C4

July

The Orphans are gritty girls that are neglected and vulnerable, yet basically honest and lovable. Cast girls that can have "mischievous" fun together, as well as "sibling style" fights. Each actress should be able to shape her own specific character, be a good singer and visually expressive. July is the quietest at age 13.

Gender: female

Vocal range top: D5

Vocal range bottom: C4

Duffy

The Orphans are gritty girls that are neglected and vulnerable, yet basically honest and lovable. Cast girls that can have "mischievous" fun together, as well as "sibling style" fights. Each actress should be able to shape her own specific character, be a good singer and visually expressive. Duffy is the oldest at age 13.

Gender: female

Vocal range top: D5

Vocal range bottom: C4

Miss Hannigan

Miss Hannigan is a definite "has-been." Her distaste for her job should ooze from every line she delivers. Cast a strong actress with excellent comic timing. She must have a strong versatile singing voice and be able to create a character that is larger than life.

Gender: female

Vocal range top: D5

Vocal range bottom: G3

Grace Farrell

Grace Farrell is Oliver Warbucks's calm, cool and classy secretary. She appears businesslike when dealing with Miss Hannigan and Warbucks, yet maternal toward Annie. Cast an actress that can always appear "in control" and sophisticated. She has a small solo at the beginning of "N.Y.C." This is a great feature part for an actress who is likable, sweet and confident.

Gender: female

Vocal range top: C5

Vocal range bottom: D4

Rooster Hannigan

Rooster Hannigan and Lily St. Regis are the comic team who claim to be Annie's parents but are revealed to be Miss Hannigan's swindling brother and his sleazy girlfriend in disguise. These characters play off each other constantly. Consider casting performers of contrasting heights. The flashy, self-assured Rooster can even be shorter than his airhead accomplice, Lily. Cast a boy for Rooster that can convincingly pull off the "smooth gambler" persona, and vocally and physically handle "Easy Street." Consider auditioning these roles together to cast the perfect duo.

Gender: male

Vocal range top: Bb4

Vocal range bottom: G3

Lily St. Regis

Rooster Hannigan and Lily St. Regis are the comic team who claim to be Annie's parents but are revealed to be Miss Hannigan's swindling brother and his sleazy girlfriend in disguise. These characters play off each other constantly. Consider casting performers of contrasting heights. The flashy, self-assured Rooster can even be shorter than his airhead accomplice, Lily. Lily is a perfect role for an actress who is naturally funny, has a good sense of timing and is a strong singer. Consider auditioning these roles together to cast the perfect duo.

Gender: female

Vocal range top: Bb4

Vocal range bottom: Bb3

Oliver Warbucks

Oliver Warbucks is the daunting millionaire who made his fortune during World War I as an industrialist. This is a challenging role, so cast an actor that can appear middle-aged, self-assured and confident. In the beginning, Warbucks is awkwardly affectionate toward Annie and then finds himself completely charmed by her. Cast an actor who is focused and gently authoritative. His few solos in "N.Y.C." are secondary to the character commitment as an actor.

Gender: male

Vocal range top: D5

Vocal range bottom: A3

Sandy

Sandy is the stray dog that Annie adopts. Sandy has no lines but has the capability of earning spontaneous applause when he sings "Tomorrow" with Annie!

Gender: any

Vocal range top: D5

Vocal range bottom: F4

Drake And Servants

Drake and the Servants are the loyal domestic help of Oliver Warbucks. Your kids will have fun perfecting precision steps, nods and curtsies. This group of performers sings with the ensemble and can be double cast as New Yorkers in "N.Y.C." These roles are ideally suited for performers of any ability. This is another excellent place to expand your cast.

Gender: any

Apple Seller

The Apple Seller opens Scene 2 speaking to Annie and giving her an apple. With just a few lines, this is a good character part for a young, inexperienced actor.

Gender: any

Lt. Ward

Lt. Ward is the policeman who questions Annie about Sandy, the stray dog. This is a non-singing role and great for a kid who can play an authoritative adult. This is also a great cameo role for a principal or well-known community member.

Gender: male

Bert Healy

Bert Healy is the classic announcer on a radio show of the era. This is a non-singing role and is perfect for someone who is naturally funny with a big voice.

Gender: male

Bundles

Bundles is the laundryman for the orphanage. This is a minor speaking role and is perfect for the actor who can create a likeable character. A great spot for an actor who is not quite ready for a large part.

Gender: male

President Franklin D. Roosevelt

President Franklin D. Roosevelt is enlisted by Oliver Warbucks to help locate Annie's parents. He will be pushed onstage in a wheelchair and delivers a momentous line about "A New Deal!" This is an excellent spot to cast an actor who is not quite ready for a large part or who doesn't have a strong singing voice.

Gender: male

Louis Howe

Louis Howe is President Roosevelt's trustworthy aide. This is a great role for someone new to performing.

Gender: male

Star(s)-to-be

Star(s)-To-Be is a glamorous diva in the number "N.Y.C." Feel free to cast multiple girls in this part and split the singing solos between them. Although this is not a speaking role, cast a girl that can confidently sing and act.

Gender: female

Vocal range top: D5

Vocal range bottom: Ab3

Usherette

The Usherette ushers Warbucks, Annie and Grace to their seats in the Roxy at the end of "N.Y.C." She has one line and then sings with the ensemble.

New Yorkers

The New Yorkers are comprised of a wonderfully colorful collection of characters, usually identified by their occupation. It is great fun to have your students explore and develop these characters in the historical context of the 1930s. Some ideas for these roles are: street vendors, homeless people, tourists, taxi drivers, newsboys, pickpockets, street cleaners, mothers and children, additional stars-to-be, and news reporters.

Gender: any

• Overture
• Maybe - Underscore
• Maybe
• Annie's Escape
• It's the Hard-Knock Life
• Scene Change
• Tomorrow
• Scene Change (2)
• Little Girls
• Easy Street
• Scene Change (3)
• N.Y.C.
• I Don't Need Anything But You (Scene Change)
• Radio Broadcast Booth Transition
• You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile
• Scene Change (4)
• Maybe (Second Reprise)
• Tomorrow (Reprise)
• Exit Music