BGT star turned entrepreneur celebrates a 20-year full-circle moment with academy’s upcoming production of Annie Jr
Ella Shaw’s Academy of Arts proudly presents Annie Jr, a heartwarming musical about resilience, hope and the power of optimism - something proud owner Ella Shaw is a huge advocate for.
This production holds special significance for Ella, marking exactly 20 years since she appeared as the lead role in ‘Annie’ at Thwaites Empire Theatre, a NODA Award winning production with Blackburn Musical Theatre Company, which has led to a remarkably successful career for the now 29-year-old.
Annie Jr is set to be the 4th musical production the multi-award winning Academy takes to the stage, directed by The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama trained Kathryn Maye-Cavaleri.
“This production feels like coming home” says professional singer and Musical Director Ella Shaw. “Twenty years ago, playing Annie at Blackburn Empire Theatre introduced me to my love of being on stage, while also being an escape for me while suffering with alopecia .”
“I remember people coming up to me at the end of the performances saying I was ‘born for the stage’ and that my ‘future was bright’.”
“This show was the beginning of an incredible career for me, but the highlight was it all leading to setting up my own performing arts school for children. I went on to create my own safe place for the next generation of young performers - a place where they could thrive”
The Academy continues to inspire young people to follow their own dreams and passions.
This beloved musical, set in 1930s New York City, tells the heartwarming story of Annie, a brave young orphan determined to find her family.
With unforgettable songs like ‘Tomorrow’ and ‘It’s the Hard Knock Life’, dazzling characters, and plenty of laughs. Annie Jr is a feel-good show for the whole family.
So why not join Ella Shaw’s Academy of Arts for another ‘West End Standard’ performance as they bring this timeless tale of hope, courage, and friendship to life this summer 2026