The latest Broadway musical production to hit Australia in 2012 is the classic musical Annie about an orphan who is torn between finding her parents and being adopted by wealthy Mr Warbucks. It is a story about love, overcoming obstacles and happy endings.
Chosen to play one of the orphans is a young aspiring performer, Alessandra Kitinas, from Sydney. Alessandra has been trained in singing, dancing and acting since the age of two, and has always made personal sacrifices, including giving up social events to pursue her talents to the best of her ability, committing herself wholeheartedly to routine and rehearsals. Her proud mother Lynne Kitinas commends her daughter on her self-discipline, maturity and drive, which is admirable for a girl of only ten years of age.
Having first heard about the auditions through her agent, Alessandra partook in a competitive audition process. She was one of many children demonstrating their abilities throughout several cycles of singing and dancing, until the best suited to the roles were selected.
It was a very exciting moment when Alessandra was told she had secured the role and it is with much anticipation that she awaits the rehearsals in November. Alessandra is looking forward to the experience as it will be her first role in a Broadway musical, and some of her friends will also be sharing the experience with her. Alessandra will be performing alongside some of Australia’s greatest theatrical talents such as Anthony Warlow, Nancy Hayes and Todd McKenney. Amongst her other musical achievements, Alessandra also plays piano, guitar and saxophone, and has a love for hip-hop dancing. She is currently preparing to compete in the Australian Hip Hop Competition National Titles which are being held next month in Melbourne.
Alessandra is also an accomplished student academically. She recently secured an academic scholarship to Kambala Anglican Girls School in Sydney.
Annie will be playing at Sydney’s Lyric Theatre Star City from 29 December, Brisbane’s Lyric Theatre QPAC from 7 April and Melbourne’s Regent Theatre from 24 May. Bookings at www.ticketmaster.com.au or www.anniethemusical.com.au.