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Gateway Theatre hosts a holiday pet food bank

By Richmond Sentinel

Published 12:46 PST, Fri December 5, 2025

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This holiday season, Gateway Theatre invites audiences to join them in becoming pet champions by contributing to their Holiday Pet Food Bank Drive. Theatre-goers can bring a pet-related donation to the theatre lobby when there are performances of Annie. All donations are being collected through the BC SPCA and will be given to Charlie’s Pet Food Bank this holiday season. Audiences can also discover some of the BC SPCA’s adoptable pets in the second-floor lobby Gallery at Gateway Theatre.

From December 11 to January 3, Gateway Theatre will be collecting the following items:

·       Wet and dry food for cats and dogs (not open or expired)

·       Treats for cats and dogs(not open or expired)

·       Toys for cats and dogs

·       Dog coats, collars, harnesses and leashes


This pet food drive highlights Gateway Theatre’s commitment to the welfare of dogs beyond just the stage. This production of Annie has been working with AnimalKind trainer, Rebecca Jennings, to ensure the well-being of all three dogs appearing as Sandy. AnimalKind is an animal‑welfare accreditation and referral program run by the BC SPCA. The program accredits dog‑training and pet‑care businesses that meet rigorous, science‑based standards. Accredited providers must use humane, reward‑based methods — avoiding any training tools or techniques that cause pain, fear, anxiety, or distress.

“Knowing how important the role of Sandy is to the heart of Annie, it was important for us to work with a designated trainer and ensure that our canine performers were treated with respect and well cared for,” said Barbara Tomasic, Gateway Theatre’s Executive Artistic Director. “Knowing what an incredible bond these animals provide their human companions, we knew we wanted to do something this holiday season to give back to them. This Holiday Pet Food Drive is about extending the love and joy of Annie towards pets and their owners, who need assistance this holiday season. We believe all animals deserve kindness, respect, and care far beyond the spotlight.”

All donations collected will be given to Charlie’s Pet Food Bank, an organization that provides free and low-cost pet services for people who are homeless, living outdoors, low-income and senior pet guardians in downtown Vancouver.

Performance Dates

December 11, 2025, to January 3, 2026

Address

Gateway Theatre, Mainstage, 6500 Gilbert Road, Richmond BC

Ticket price

Adults: $43-$73, Children (0-12): $25

Box Office Phone

604-270-1812

Online Tickets

 

https://www.gatewaytheatre.com/events/annie

Annie is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com.

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