Junior Theatre Triumphs

Fans of San Diego Junior Theatre’s production of Annie wish it could have played indefinitely — it was that good. No doubt, SDJT is on a roll and has been for the last few years. The talent is amazing, with dancing, singing, and acting skills that rank right up there with its status as the longest continually operating children’s theatre in the United States. A JT premiere of Santa Claus vs. the Martians plays at the La Jolla YMCA Firehouse Theatre December 2-18, with school day shows on December 7 and 13. Then, back in Balboa Park, begin the New Year with a trio of lively shows. Rippledink’s Repertory is designed to provide a cutting-edge experience in children’s theatre: three shows shown in rep over three weekends. Pretty ambitious. The Complete History of America (abridged) takes the Casa del Prado stage in Balboa Park January 6-22, along with Harold and the Purple Crayon and Schoolhouse Rock, Live! Be forewarned: the zest and spunk of JT kids are highly contagious. (619/239-8355, www.juniortheatre.com)   DARLENE G. DAVIES