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'Annie' Lyricist: It's Still One Of My Favorites

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The man who created the original Broadway production of "Annie" in 1977 was in Baltimore for the production's opening night.

Martin Charnin is a legend in the industry and told Mary Bubala why "Annie" is still one of his favorite musicals.

The man behind the original Broadway production of "Annie," which debuted 38 years ago, made a special stop in Baltimore to see the production on the Hippodrome stage.

"This is a return to the iconic `Annie,' the thing that every city wanted to see, the audience wanted that Annie, the one that the grandmother remembers and her daughter's daughters remember," Charnin said.

Charnin wrote all those memorable lyrics. He says the reason why Annie is successful is the music is memorable and the story resonates with everyone.

"She is a universal character who has a very specific identity and goal and the goal is to remind everyone in the most optimistic way that it will indeed be better tomorrow," he said. "It's an important tap on the shoulder to anyone who's cynical about anything."

Charnin directed "Annie" 19 times all over the world. It's his baby. He came to Baltimore to check in on the production.

"When I come, they are on their best behavior and I like seeing the show on its best behavior," he said.

The award-winning director is celebrating his 57th year in the entertainment industry.

"Annie" is at the Hippodrome through Sunday.

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