Kids to Know in Orlando: Annika Franklin

From Orlando to Broadway and Beyond

Some kids just have a spark that shines brightest on stage. For Annika Franklin, that spark led from singing as a toddler in Orlando to performing under the bright lights of Broadway, and even being a part of “Wicked” (2024 film). Now back home in Central Florida, Annika continues to inspire other young dreamers who see themselves on stage one day.

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An Interview with Annika Franklin

OP: What first drew you to the performing arts, and how did you get started with the AdventHealth School of the Arts at the Dr. Phillips Center?

AF: I always loved to sing from the time I was a baby. My love for the performing arts really began when my parents enrolled me in a class at the AdventHealth School of the Arts at the Dr. Phillips Center. At the end of the session, I performed with my classmates and, ironically, was asked to sing “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King.”

OP: What did you learn from your experience there?

AF: I will always have so much love for the AdventHealth School of the Arts. It was there that I learned how to perform in front of a live audience and gained the tools to perform with confidence and pride. The faculty and staff were so caring, loving, and encouraging. They always brought out the best in me.

OP: What was it like to perform in “The Lion King” on Broadway?

AF: To make my Broadway debut and perform as Young Nala in “The Lion King” at the Minskoff Theatre in New York City was a dream come true. I spent 15 months performing in NYC alongside some of the greatest actors, dancers, and musicians in the theater world. I met so many amazing people, took away so many life lessons, and gained a second family in the time I was there.

OP: And while in New York, you had another amazing opportunity. Tell us about that.

AF: Yes! While I was in New York, I was asked to be part of the children’s ensemble for “Wicked” (2024 film). I felt so honored to sing alongside other talented kids and to meet and work with Stephen Schwartz, the composer for “Wicked” on Broadway. It was such an incredible experience.

OP: Were there any moments or lessons that really stood out during your time on Broadway?

AF: The biggest lessons I learned, both on stage and behind the scenes, were to work hard, never give up, and be patient. When I first auditioned for “The Lion King”, I made it to the final callbacks but didn’t get the role. I kept practicing and training, and when they called me back to re-audition the next year, I booked it! Working hard and never giving up really does pay off.

OP: How did you balance performing with school and everyday life?

AF: That was probably the hardest part. I’ve always been a good student and didn’t want to sacrifice my grades while doing the show. I worked really hard in school in the mornings before rehearsals or late at night after a show to make sure I turned in my homework and was ready for exams. I only had one day off a week, and it fell on a Monday, which was still a school day, so I never really had a true day off. But I loved every minute of it and wouldn’t have changed a thing.

OP: Are you currently involved in any local productions or training programs?

AF: Right now, I’m taking a break from local theater productions as I transition back to regular life in Florida. I’m still taking lessons and have a few singing performances coming up. I plan to get more involved locally next year.

OP: What advice would you give to other young performers who look up to you?

AF: Work hard, train hard, always be true to yourself, and most importantly, never give up. All the NOs will eventually lead to the perfect YES.