Supported in part by the Community Foundation for San Benito County, the San Benito Stage Company once again enlivens the county with a vibrant rendition of the classic “Annie The Musical.” See Suzanne Proctor’s June 29 preview in BenitoLink highlighting the international standing and charm of this stage favorite, one that teaches a bit of history and, at the same time, mirrors our current experiences: The Great Recession and the gap between the ultra-rich and those at the bottom of the economic pyramid. Through this lesson, San Benito Stage Company teaches youth about surviving hard times.
Teachers will tell you about varying ways of knowing, emphasizing the difference between reading about the 1930s Depression versus the value of performing in plays such as “Annie,” when youth portray roles through language and stage moves that capture the reality of the era: the suffering, the fortitude, the heroism. Research affirms our intuition that engaging in hands-on work means the body is learning—and retains knowledge—at a deeper level than otherwise possible. That same research tells us students—whether on stage or in audiences—do better academically over the long term.
The nonprofit San Benito Stage Company provides a precious cultural resource that also fills a gap in arts education in our county. As a newcomer (here only 19 years), I’ve often heard moans about our geographic distance from cultural events. Not so whenever your community theater sets a goal to present the text and music of well-known plays delivered by your neighbor and the kid next door. It matters.
PERFORMANCES:
JULY 14, 15, 21, 22, 27, 28, and 29 at 7 p.m.
Sunday Matinees: JULY 16 and 23 at 2 p.m.
WHERE:
The Granada Theatre
336 Fifth St. in Hollister
TICKETS:
Adults: $16
Seniors/Students: $13
Group four-pack: $48 (Advance sale only)
TICKETS AVAILABLE AT:
Postal Graphics: 831-636-3787
Click here to order online.
San Benito Stage Company is a nonprofit performing arts association dedicated to producing local musical and theatrical workshops, plays, and performances. Its goal is to provide high-quality, live entertainment for the entire community of San Benito County, while developing performing arts and production skills for its members.