Will the sun really come out tomorrow? Find out when Creative Pursuits Academy presents "Annie JR." at The Junction Center, 1875 Junction Road, Manheim. The show will be performed at 2 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3.

The musical performance marks the culmination of a two-week summer theater camp, said Katelyn Marie Coryell, director and choreographer of the show and executive director of Creative Pursuits Academy.

"Creative Pursuits has been putting camp on as a co-production with The Junction Center since 2022 and has offered camps to students in the greater Lancaster area since summer 2019," Coryell shared. "Our students are rising fifth-graders through rising 12th-graders from all around Lancaster and the surrounding area." Campers participate in rehearsals, healthy competition and team building exercises, while receiving instruction in acting, singing and dancing techniques. 

This is the third time Coryell has staged "Annie," and she said the show about a plucky young orphan adopted by a wealthy businessman always surprises. "As a show, 'Annie' has something new for you to take away each time you see it," she shared. "It's a show about respecting people for who they are, regardless of where you come from or what you think about the world. (It's) a show about resounding, relentless optimism in a time where everything looks bleak. Everyone can use a bit of that optimism."

Although "Annie JR." will be presented after just two weeks of rehearsals, audiences should be prepared for a stellar production, said Phillip Miller, event and facilities director of The Junction Center.

"Guests can expect high-quality local theater with full, state-of-the-art production, including a 90-panel LED wall with interactive backdrops, a mesmerizing lighting design by Joanna Knepper and audio mixed by Ethan Scott," he noted.

"Annie JR." is a 90-minute show that will be performed with a brief intermission. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://www.junctioncenterproductions.com.