The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow!

The Mount de Sales Performing Arts Department presented the fall musical Annie to sold-out crowds in November. The cast, crew, and pit band shared this classic story with more patrons than ever, offering two weekends of shows in the Center for Performing Arts and Student Life.

Under the direction of drama teacher Mrs. Marian Newell, the young cast showed a glimpse into the life of 1930’s America. Averi Cain ’25 played the lead role with much spunk, beaming with optimism as she made everyone honestly believe that no matter what, “the sun will come out tomorrow!” The incredibly talented Holly Bruchalski ’23 was an audience favorite as mean old Miss Hannigan, and CC Conklin ’23 and Georgia Kelley ’25 were stand-out orphans, playing Pepper and Molly respectively. Sydney McGee ’23 brought elegance to the stage as Grace Farrell, complemented by the wonderfully endearing performance of MSJ senior Cooper Funk as Oliver Warbucks. Katherine Kurek ’23 shone brightly as the Star-to-Be, and MSJ’s Hans Raven ’24 personified Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was inspired by Annie to get a “New Deal for Christmas.” The Mansion Staff and Hooverville ensembles enthusiastically sang and danced through each musical number, bringing the entire story to life.

The invaluable student crew costumed the cast, made props, built the set, and ran lights and sound for this fantastic production with the help of amazing parent volunteers. Stage managers Josie Hill ’25 and Colleen Butler ’25 provided great leadership, calling the show, and keeping things moving both on and off the stage. Music Director Mr. Jeff Hosier conducted the pit band through the familiar score, from the rollicking Hard Knock Life to the jazzy Easy Street and the sweet Anything But You. Guests praised the professionalism of the performance, as the reputation of the MDSA musicals continue to impress.

The Mount de Sales Performing Arts Program provided a high level and meaningful educational experience to the nearly 100 students involved in the show. More importantly, participating in the fall musical gave these students a place of belonging as they collaborated to create, perform, and share their gifts and talents with the entire Mount de Sales community.

Angela Romeo ’94 P’18 Producer/Choreographer/Performing Arts Chair

Pink Out

On January 6, the MDSA varsity and junior varsity basketball teams, led by varsity captains, Harper Eudy ’23 and Shelby Lewis ’25, not only secured a win over Severn High School, but also completed a successful Pink Out Basketball Fundraiser.

Started in 2013, the annual MDSA Pink Out Basketball Game benefits the St. Agnes Breast Cancer Center in honor of Carol Sauter, mother of a MDSA basketball player Katie Sauter ‘13, who sadly passed away from breast cancer.

The mood in the Constance and Samuel Pistorio Sports Complex was electric, filled with care for this great cause. The charity of the varsity and junior varsity players and their families allowed us to raise $2,550 for the St. Agnes Breast Cancer Center. Hearts on the new “Wall of Love” commemorate family members and friends affected by cancer.

The St. Agnes Breast Cancer Center is grateful for the support and generosity of our MDSA community. Funds raised help women navigate their health needs after a cancer diagnosis.

A special thank you to Mrs. Aimee Eudy P’23 and Mrs. Sheri Lewis P ’22 ’25 for their tireless help organizing the 2023 Pink Out Basketball Game.

Nancy Lukowski P’14