SOUTHEAST ALABAMA COMMUNITY THEATRE
SEACT SELECTS CAST FOR BELOVED MUSICAL ‘ANNIE’
Community Shows Up in a Big Way for Auditions
January 12, 2026 — Dothan, AL — Southeast Alabama Community Theatre (SEACT) is thrilled to announce
the cast of Annie, following an overwhelming community turnout for auditions that filled the Cultural Arts Center
auditorium with talent and excitement. The response signals not only enthusiasm for the iconic, family-friendly
musical, but also the strong support of the local community.
Directors Mary Helen Richards and Danny Richards both expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic response.
“It was clear from the turnout that people have been waiting for this show. The response from the community
was incredible,” the Richards shared.
Both directors have deep personal connections to Annie. Mary Helen Richards’ great aunt, Jane Greenwood,
is an award-winning Broadway costume designer and friend of actor Sarah Jessica Parker, who played Annie
in 1979 — the same production that introduced Mary Helen to her first Broadway experience. Danny Richards
brings his own history full circle, having played Rooster in SEACT’s 1985 production of Annie and later
directing the show in 2000.
True to the spirit of Annie, the cast reflects a strong sense of family and togetherness. Several families will be
sharing the stage together, making the production especially meaningful. One such pair is local jewelry
designer Mary Kathryn Kendig, who will be performing alongside her 9-year-old daughter, Julia.
“Performing in Annie with my daughter is truly special,” says Kendig. “Stepping back into singing and dancing
has been nostalgic but sharing it with Julia makes it even more meaningful.”
Beloved across generations, Annie is known for its unforgettable music and heartwarming story, including
iconic songs such as “Tomorrow” and “Hard Knock Life.” With a cast spanning ages and backgrounds,
SEACT’s production promises to be both heartfelt and deeply rooted in community, and celebrates a return to
the Dothan Opera House performance space.
Annie will take the Opera House stage March 10–14, 2026, with performances Tuesday through Saturday at
7:00 p.m., and a 2:00 p.m. Saturday matinee. Tickets go on sale February 23. To view the full cast list and
learn more, visit seact.com.
This production is made possible through the support of SEACT’s community partners, including the Alabama State
Council on the Arts, Coleman Worldwide Moving, APEC, and MH Yoga Health Studio.
About SEACT
Founded in 1974, Southeast Alabama Community Theatre (SEACT) provides Dothan and the Wiregrass area with opportunities to
participate in and experience live theatre. SEACT’s mission is to connect community members of all ages with the transformative power
of the arts through productions, classes, and educational programs. The SEACT season is made possible by generous support from
members, sponsors, and personal and corporate contributions. To learn more about SEACT, visit seact.com.
909 South St. Andrews St. • Dothan, Al 36301 • 334.794.0400 • seact@seact.com • SEACT.COM
