Gil Cates

Jon fondly remembers the late Academy Awards producer Gil Cates.

The award-winning documentary, by former Annie orphan Julie Stevens and Co-Director, Gil Cates Jr., reunites more than 40 women who played orphans in the original Broadway production of Annie and reveals the highs and lows of their experiences as child actresses in a cultural phenomenon. "Life After Tomorrow" is a true behind-the-scenes look at the Annie experience.

Trailer for the documentary Life After Tomorrow. Life After Tomorrow is a personal journey of filmmaker and co-director, Julie Stevens, who played one of the orphans in the Broadway cast and National Tour. With partner, Gil Cates, Jr., the filmmakers spoke with over 40 women who played orphans in the show during its original run on Broadway, from 1977-1983. The film explores the life-changing repercussions of child performers in 'Annie' as many orphan cast members revisit their experience in the show, their childhood, family support structure, what happened when they left the show and tried to resume a 'normal' childhood, and what they are doing today. Life After Tomorrow is not only a 'Where Are They Now' glimpse back at the careers of some talented children but also a cautionary tale for any parents considering putting their child into show business. The film also visits with the creators of 'Annie' (writer/lyricist Martin Charnin and composer Charles Strouse), fans, agents, adult cast members and a new generation of 'Annie' orphans. With a Broadway cast and four national touring companies, 'Annie' ran for over five years and 2,377 performances on Broadway. With 7 little girls in each cast, thousands of children get their start in show business through this musical. ow offers a glimpse of what the 'Annie' experience was like and how it shaped the lives of the young women who have gone on to both performing and non-performing careers. Former orphans appearing in the film include MSNBC anchor, Dara Brown, actress Sarah Jessica Parker, recording artist Joanna Pacitti, Emmy award-winning actress Martha Byrne and songwriter Danielle Brisebois.