Exciting news — Luanda De Hilster has been cast in Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma’s production of Annie, running June 16–21, 2026, at the Oklahoma City Civic Center Music Hall. This marks Luanda’s Lyric Theatre debut.
It’s a meaningful place to make that debut. As the Official State Theatre of Oklahoma, Lyric has direct ties to Broadway: for more than six decades it has staged fully orchestrated musicals featuring both Broadway stars and local talent, and performers who have graced Lyric’s stages include Kristin Chenoweth, Kelli O’Hara, Megan Mullally, Chita Rivera, and Billy Porter. Lyric recently brought a celebration of its Broadway alumni — artists who call both New York City and Lyric home — to the famed 54 Below in NYC.
Luanda joins the production as a Swing, one of the most demanding and versatile roles in musical theatre. She’ll rehearse and shadow two parts — Mrs. Pugh and Mrs. Greer — learning them thoroughly so she’s ready to perform if the original cast members are unable to go on. While a swing isn’t guaranteed stage time on any given night, they are the safety net that keeps a show running, prepared to step in at a moment’s notice.
Directed by Michael Baron with music direction by Jake Johnson and choreography by Matthew Sipress, Annie tells the timeless story of a spirited orphan whose optimism shines through the hardest of times, featuring beloved songs like “Tomorrow,” “Maybe,” and “It’s the Hard-Knock Life.”
Luanda’s previous credits include Guys & Dolls, Chicago, Legally Blonde, and A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder at the University of Central Oklahoma, as well as The Polar Express with Rail Events/Warner Brothers.
The show runs approximately 2½ hours including one 15-minute intermission and is suitable for general audiences.
Don’t miss it! Tickets are available at lyrictheatreokc.com or by calling Lyric’s Box Office at (405) 524-9312.
