Stealing the show: Furry, four-footed actor highlights 'Annie the Musical' at Aurora Central High

Posted April 05, 2025 2:21 pm

Submitted by Al Benson

On Friday, April 4, Aurora certified therapy dog Tilly stole the show as Sandy in “Annie the Musical!,” at Aurora Central High School.

Sandy is a stray mutt that Annie, portrayed by Catie Houck of Aurora, rescues and befriends, becoming her loyal companion throughout the story.

In addition to Tilly, owned by a cast member, the show includes Billy, a second live dog, listed as a “catch dog.”

Tilly made her musical debut in “Annie.” Tilly and mom Stephanie volunteer with East Aurora School District 131's Paws program at Gates Elementary School in Aurora, Special Stars, Inc., a nonprofit; Therapy Dog International, Tail Waggin' Tutors and Healing Hearts.

Tilly loves playing with her favorite toys, Lamb Chop and squeaky toys.

Therapy dog Tilly, left, portrays Sandy in “Annie the Musical!” at Aurora Central High School this weekend. Right is Catie Houck of Aurora as Annie. Courtesy of Al Benson

The show continues at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 5, and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 6, in the Father Etheredge Center for Performing Arts at the school, 1255 N. Edgelawn Drive, Aurora.

Admission is $15 for reserved seats and $10 general admission. The first 100 reservations will be offered padded chairs. Tickets can be purchased at the door or preordered by calling (630) 907-0095.

An intermission is included. Concessions are offered by ACC Drama Boosters.

Phil Nohl, ACC drama and choir director, said the production is the school's first featuring student-designed sets, lighting, costumes and sound.

The 40-member cast includes:

Aurora: Anthony Gustafson, Nola Hollenbaugh, Catie Houck, Marissa Masciola, Kaylee Masciola, Adeline McElhinney, Elaina McElhinney, Aria Miller, Danielle Tranchita, Elizabeth Hipp, Jesus Ovando, Izzy Pasternale and Katelyn Bracke.

Elgin: Natalie Lester

Geneva: Mya Albertsen, Liam McLane and Samantha Riddell

Maple Park: Jocelyn Ortega

Naperville: Abby Galer

North Aurora: Gerardo Galvez-Huerta and Anna Hefke

Oswego: Alex Gutierez and Sophia Gutierez

Sandwich: Samantha Reynolds

South Elgin: Bella Rohlwing

Sycamore: Molly Manhart

Yorkville: Claire Rufa and Alexis Stroup

Joining cast members are 10 area middle schoolers. They are: Paige Roberts, Georgia Roberts and Kaitlyn Cibulskis, Aurora; Eden Schaffer, Batavia: Rowan Hassler, Elburn; Miya Gavina and Finley Johnson, Geneva; McKenzie Riddell, Montgomery; Kamryn Holubetz and Jack Fetzer, North Aurora.

Call (630) 907-0095 or visit auroracentral.com for more information.

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