Production of Annie in Panama

The Teatro en Circulo is running a production of the broadway hit, "Annie," at their playhouse a block off of Transistmica in Panama City. The energetic story of an orphan who steals the hearts of a millionaire, the president, and everyone else is presented in Spanish. Teatro en Circulo has been running Spanish versions of Broadway hits as well as serious theater since 1961 providing aspiring actors a venue to develop their talents. Director and producer Bruce Quinn chose Annie because of his impression of the world's current situation being similar to the 1930's, the setting for Annie during the Great Depression.Thus he believes that the hope embodied in the musical's signature song, "Tomorrow" is something we all need today.  

The Teatro en Circulo has recently done other Broadway hits, such as "The Producers." The group typically produces two shows a year, all with local talent. The theater is easy to get to, is in a safe area, and has ample parking. Located on Calle 6A, the Teatro en Circulo is a block off of Transistmica on the back side of the same city block as the Farmacia Arrocha.

Annie was great fun. The kids were cute and talented and the excellent adult cast managed not to get overshadowed by playing opposite the cute, talented "Annie," played by Adriana Linares. Any Tovar, playing Miss Hannigan, has a strong voice and successfully portrayed the conniving and disollute woman in charge of the orphanage. The brother, "Rooster" is played by Randy Dominguez whose singing and dancing skills are impressive. The song and dance number, "Easy Street," featuring Tovar, Dominguez, and Janelle Davidson as Lilly St. Regis gave nothing away to the movie version featuring Carol Burnett years ago. Likewise Arturo Montenegro as Oliver Warbucks and Melisa Moreno as Grace gave strong performances, show casing "Annie" without being overshadowed.

The sad part of Annie is that it only runs until September 30, this coming Wednesday, and is typically sold out. If you are interested in tickets, $30, call 261-5259. If you are interested in future productions check out the Teatro en Circulo web site at www.teatroencirculo.com.