Peer into the Playbill

Join us for engaging panels featuring special guests as they explore the themes and issues presented in the 2025 playbill. Artists, directors and scholars will share insights into the creative processes behind the productions and their relevance in today’s world.

Origins of the Orphan Literary Trope

In this informative discussion, we’ll dive into the inspiration behind Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables and uncover the origins of Annie, whose eponymous little orphan famously declares that “the sun’ll come out tomorrow.” A celebration of child protagonists in literature and beyond, the discussion brings together Professor Mavis Reimer, from the University of Winnipeg, and Professor Michelle Ann Abate from Ohio State University to explore the historical threads in these stories and how they have been woven into the fabric of early 20th century culture with lasting legacy. The panel will be moderated by this season's Miss Hanigan (Annie) Laura Condlln.