During rehearsals for the upcoming production of the Broadway musical "Annie" in Bengaluru this weekend, pediatrician Dr. Maya Mascarenhas and co-theatre director Judith Roby Bidapa believe that theatre, like all art forms, provides a safe and supportive space for children to express themselves and explore their passions. Dr. Mascarenhas emphasizes that "Annie" tells a story of hope, optimism, and the belief in a brighter future, inspiring young audiences to discover their potential. She also discusses the benefits of directing children in theatre and the importance of arts education in schools. With a focus on teamwork and social interaction, she believes that arts education is integral to a child's development, fostering creativity and life skills such as coping with stress and critical thinking. Dr. Mascarenhas encourages the integration and promotion of arts education by schools, corporations, sponsors, media, and adults to nurture children's potential from an early age. The production of "Annie" aims to offer a family-friendly musical experience with humor, staying true to the iconic story originally released in the '70s without modernization.We aim for children to grasp the 1930s setting of the original production through the period-appropriate costumes, sets, and backdrops. "Annie" is a family-friendly musical filled with humor and heartwarming messages, centering on a girl adopted from an orphanage and emphasizing the value of adoption and generosity. These themes remain relevant today. Maya expresses how children in her group, who face various challenges like autism and ADHD, undergo a remarkable transformation when performing on stage. The Bangalore Chorus will stage its production of "Annie" at Chowdiah Memorial Hall on October 26 and 27 at 3 pm and 7 pm.