Little Miss Sunshine's Abigail Breslin explores Green Gables, takes in musical

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CHARLOTTETOWN - One of Hollywood's hottest young actresses came to Prince Edward Island this week in search of Anne of Green Gables.

Twelve-year-old Abigail Breslin, best known for her role in Little Miss Sunshine, visited the province to take in a matinee of the musical and several Anne-inspired attractions.

She read the novel as part of a reading assignment while filming a movie in Australia last year, she said. The book soon became a favourite and she made sure those around her knew it.

"I started using her phrases," Breslin said -- and she still remembers the one she used the most.

"Having red hair will be my lifelong sorrow."

After the musical, the cast got the opportunity to meet Breslin, who stepped backstage to introduce herself.

"It was really good," she told them, adding that live theatre is something she could never do.

"I don't think I could get up in front of that many people."

Amy Wallis, who plays Anne in this year's musical, said they found out Breslin would be in the audience the day before.

"It's neat to know a celebrity is watching you."

Wallis said while she'd like to think she didn't perform any differently, she was aware of Breslin's presence.

"Even when your mother is out there you have a heightened awareness. You put a little more into it."