Landmark Musicals Keeps the Magic of Live Theatre Alive for Every Generation

"Annie" at Landmark Musicals

Some shows become classics because of their memorable songs or characters. Others last because they start traditions families share over the years. For more than 15 years, Landmark Musicals has done both, creating theater experiences that honor Broadway’s history and help new performers and theater fans grow across New Mexico.

Since 2008, this Albuquerque company has focused on staging big musicals with one special feature: every show has a live orchestra. Its dedication to live music and local talent is now at the heart of what it does. "Our most important thing is that we always use live orchestras," explained Resident Director Laurie Finnegan. "We have local musicians, we have local performers. That was Landmark Musicals' vision in the beginning."

Even as its vision stays the same, the company has grown with its audiences. It started by focusing on big shows by Rodgers and Hammerstein, Lerner and Loewe, and Cole Porter. Now it also includes newer productions that connect with younger people while still celebrating Broadway’s golden age.

Instead of leaving the classics behind, Landmark Musicals brings different generations together through its shows.

"We still do the landmark big ones," Finnegan said. "But then we also do these newer ones that bring in a new audience so that they get an appreciation for the newer works and then also the older works because they come back."

This approach keeps the company nostalgic and modern. They introduce families to theater with familiar shows and also encourage them to discover the classics that shaped American musical theater. You can see this philosophy in action with the company’s upcoming production of Annie, one of Broadway’s most loved family musicals.

Few shows capture the holiday spirit like the story of the red-haired orphan who believes that "the sun will come out tomorrow." Annie has inspired audiences for years. With performances set for Thanksgiving, families can start or continue a special holiday tradition together. "It's the perfect holiday show," Finnegan said. "It's perfect family fare."

For audiences, Annie is a well-loved show with great songs and touching moments. Behind the scenes, putting on a show with many children takes careful planning, patience, and a real love for working with young performers. Finnegan thinks auditions should be about more than just singing skills. "It starts with being very, very organized," she explained. "Having people who know children and love children and love working with them."

Auditions involve singing, but kids are also encouraged to play games, interact, and have fun. These moments help the team see important qualities like personality, confidence, and teamwork. "It should always be joyful," Finnegan said.

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That feeling of joy goes far beyond rehearsals. Finnegan has taught theater for years, so she knows how much the arts can shape young people. Besides learning dances or lines, students build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and communication skills. These skills last long after the show ends. "You start them young, and you bring them up," Finnegan said. "One of the best things about doing theater and music is the sense of accomplishment and the self-confidence that they gain."

Many performers who start as kids come back later as adults, parents, volunteers, or mentors. This cycle keeps the theater community strong.

This spirit of different generations coming together is a big part of what makes Landmark Musicals special.

Families often join in together, whether they’re on stage, helping backstage, or cheering from the audience. Eora Daniels, who is a part of the Marketing Team, recently got to experience this herself when she performed in Mary Poppins with her father. She called it one of her favorite theater memories. "It was so special to get to share telling that story with him," she recalled.

Moments like these show why community theater is still going strong. People may come for the shows, but the friendships made during rehearsals are just as important as the performances.

As Landmark Musicals continues to grow, its mission remains rooted in creating opportunities for local artists. It also focuses on producing high-quality entertainment that gives local artists chances to shine and puts on great shows for people of all ages. Whether it’s a classic or a new musical, the company aims to inspire both performers and audiences.

By honoring tradition and welcoming new ideas, Landmark Musicals has stayed a lively part of New Mexico’s arts scene for almost twenty years.

With Annie and more shows on the way, Landmark Musicals keeps showing why live theater is such a powerful way to tell stories. It brings families together, helps young artists grow, and creates memories that last long after the show ends.

To find out more about Landmark Musicals, their upcoming shows, auditions, or how to volunteer, visit landmarkmusicals.org.