NOTE: As of Feb. 29, 2024, Carolina Youth Development Center (CYDC) has rebranded to Landmarks for Families. Our nonprofit, community programs and residential services remain committed to cultivating thriving youth and families in this new chapter.
CHARLESTON, SC- In the midst of a sold out run of ANNIE! at the Charleston Performing Arts Center, actress Catherine Ashmore Bradley (who stars as Annie) visited the Carolina Youth Development Center this week.
While at CYDC, Catherine met with local children ranging from ages 7 to 18. She sang songs from ANNIE!, taught them dance moves, played games and chatted with them about the performing arts. Many of the children she met with are interested in pursuing the arts in the
future which kept the conversations flowing.
“It’s so important to remember that there are children out there who aren’t growing up with their moms and dads and don’t have the things in life we all take for granted. It’s important that they have hope! And that they know they can have a bright future too! It’s just like my character
Annie, being optimistic and bright, I wanted to put that into their lives!” says Bradley.
CYDC is the first of its kind in the United States, founded in 1790. Their mission is to empower
and equip the community’s most vulnerable children by providing a safe environment, educational support, and career readiness, in collaboration with families and community partners. Beverly Hardin, Chief Executive Officer of Carolina Youth Development Center said, “We’re proud of the work we do here at CYDC. We’re excited about the future and creating opportunities every day to experience the arts and learn and grow. That’s why we really loved Catherine visiting us, they got to learn about life in theater. She brought sunshine to the kids’
day, especially when she sang a song from Annie.”
During Catherine’s visit she announced that she will be donating her earnings from the show to CYDC, which they will use to take the children on a mini vacation. Catherine and her family will also host transportation and tickets to see ANNIE! this week. “I can’t wait to see them at the show! I was so lucky that I got to meet such extraordinary kids and spend the afternoon with them. I can’t wait to see what they accomplish next – football players, dancers, homecoming queens and more! I’m thankful they let me be a part of their family. I will
never forget it!”
Due to demand, an additional performance of ANNIE! was added for Thursday, January 24, 2019. Tickets are now on sale at www.charlestonperformingarts.org
