A Celebration of Talent, Hope, and Community
This season, Dance Centre Kenya (DCK), invites audiences to experience the heartwarming story of Annie, the beloved Broadway musical that has captured hearts for generations. With its iconic songs like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” this lively production delivers a powerful message of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of love—values that DCK holds close to its mission.
A Stage for All: Dance Centre Kenya’s Vision
Founded with a deep commitment to excellence in the performing arts, Dance Centre Kenya is well known for their annual Christmas production of The Nutcracker, which has become a beloved tradition in Nairobi. Led by Executive and Artistic Director Cooper Rust, a former professional ballerina, DCK prides itself on nurturing homegrown talent and producing well-rounded dancers who go on to succeed on international stages.
DCK’s impact extends beyond the stage. Through its robust outreach programs, the centre works with underserved children across Nairobi, providing scholarships and training opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. These initiatives are rooted in the belief that the arts can be a powerful catalyst for social change, education, and personal growth.
Annie: A Story That Mirrors DCK’s Mission
Following the success of DCK’s recent forays into musical theatre – Oliver! in 2023 and Cats in 2024 – the company now tackles Annie – a musical that resonates deeply with DCK’s values.
The musical Annie tells the story of a young orphan girl who lives in an orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan in 1930s New York City. Annie dreams of finding her real parents and is determined to escape the orphanage. Her life changes when she is taken in by the wealthy Oliver Warbucks and his secretary, Grace Farrell. Annie’s journey involves finding her parents, befriending President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and ultimately discovering the true meaning of family and hope.
Set during America’s Great Depression, this is the story of a journey from a hard-knock life to a hopeful future, echoing the real-life stories of many of DCK’s scholarship students, some of whom have gone on to perform internationally or pursue advanced training abroad.
For many of these children, the opportunity to take part in a professional production like Annie is a transformative experience that builds confidence, discipline, and a lifelong love of the arts.
As in all DCK productions, Annie features a diverse and talented cast made up of both fee-paying and scholarship students.
At Dance Centre Kenya, we believe the performing arts have the power to transform lives. Our production of Annie brings together children from all walks of life—united by passion, discipline, and a shared dream. It’s more than just a show; it’s a celebration of resilience, hope, and what young people can achieve when given the stage.” — Cooper Rust, Executive and Artistic Director, Dance Centre Kenya
Don’t Miss the Show!
Join Dance Centre Kenya the 13th – 15th of June at the Kenya National Theatre for a high-spirited, family-friendly production that will leave you humming long after the curtain falls. Whether you’re a longtime theatre lover or new to the magic of musicals, Annie is a fun-filled, must-see event that uplifts and inspires.
Directed by Cooper Rust, alongside the talented May Ombara, and accompanied live by the DCK Orchestra under the baton of Kenya’s own musical legend Levi Wataka, this production brings together some of the country’s finest creative talents.
Because at DCK, every child deserves a stage—and every tomorrow holds promise!
For tickets visit KenyaBuzz. Please note that prices will rise the week of the show. For more information contact +254 713 930 549. Follow Dance Centre Kenya on Instagram for more updates!
In line with DCK’s mission to expose children to the arts and spread the magic of theatre!, DCK is seeking donations that will give less fortunate kids the unforgettable experience of watching Annie the Musical live on stage. For only 1000 shillings you can sponsor a child’s ticket to the show.
As DCK says, “Every child deserves a little sunshine and song — let’s make it happen together”.
Donations to: Mpesa Paybill 4122761 | Account no. Annie Tix.