The Queens Center for Progress Players Theater Program will be performing the classic play “Annie” on June 4 and 5.
Photo by Alice Moreno
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The sun will come out tomorrow as the Queens Center for Progress (QCP) Players Theater Program will return for their second year. On June 4 and 5 at 11 a.m., the QCP Players will perform the hit Broadway show Annie Kids at the QCP’s adult center, located at 81-15 164th St. in Jamaica. Admission is free and open to the public.
Photo by Alice Moreno
Photo by Alice Moreno
Collaborating with AhHa!Broadway, the program helps those with developmental disabilities from the QCP’s Day Habilitation program participate in a theater production, ranging from acting to backstage work, such as costuming, set design and concessions.
Photo by Alice Moreno
Photo by Alice Moreno
“AhHa!Broadway is a company that was built into turning ‘impossible’ into ‘I’m possible,’” said Heather Edwards, CEO and founder of AhHa!Broadway. “And we connect with mostly children, but we also work with seniors, veterans, physically challenged and neurodivergent individuals as well.”
Photo by Alice Moreno
Photo by Alice Moreno
QCP Players first began in 2025, performing the musical Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Kids, which drew over 400 guests. Since then, theatre has become a significant part for those attending QCP, bringing excitement towards building a theatrical show.
Photo by Alice Moreno
Photo by Alice Moreno
“We’ve always wanted to put on a theater program because the individuals love to perform,” said Josie Davide, Director of Day Services at QCP. “It comes out in them, their inner stardom, and they just love to be a part of a group and be a part of something that they can say is their own.”
The QCP Players theater program helps the players grow confidence, building their independence, teamwork and creativity. With the partnership with AhHa!Broadway, QCP players get to showcase their talents, participating in various ways to bring the musicals to life.
Photo by Alice Moreno
Photo by Alice Moreno
The titular role of Annie will be played by Tyaisha Blake-Lochard. Her confidence shines through the role, singing songs such as “Tomorrow” and “It’s a Hard Knock Life” with glee.
“Annie is [a] one of a kind girl, and I am one of a kind,” said Blake-Lochard, when asked what makes the character of Annie special. “I am very, very talented and I am amazing.”
To RSVP for the show, visit fundraise.givesmart.com/e/YQNdYw?vid=1qrgof .
Photo by Alice Moreno