Annie

For their 80th production Dewsbury Collegians presented "Annie" the much loved and well known musical that has just recently commenced a rivival in London, with music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Martin Charnin and based on the book by Thomas Meehan.

The story is set in New York during the Great Depression in December 1933 featuring little orphan Annie who was left on the doorstep of the orphanage when she was a baby.  Annie always believed that one day her parents would come and collet her.

Anais Leedham gave a consummate performance in acting, singing and dancing in the main role of Annie, full of confidence and enthusiasm.  Oliver Warbucks (Steven Holt) fitted the role like a glove both in character and looks.  He was the hard billionaire businessman who softened into a father figure as the relationship developed between the two,as the characters slowly changed when they bonded together.

The permanently inebriated Miss Hannigan (Rachel Warlop) in charge of the orphanage had excellent comedy timimg along with her enjoyable interpretation of the musical numbers.  Grace Farrell, (Claire Adams) Oliver Warbuck's sophisticated and elegant assistant was charming.  Rooster and Lily were splendid as the two scurrlious gangsters and "fake parents".

The children were enthusiastic and very well disciplined, they all appeard to enjoy themselves thoroughly throughout the show especially in their musical numbers "It's a Hard Knock Life" and "Fully Dressed", and little Molly was a delight to watch.

Good diction, dialogue could be heard and easily understood, the wardrobe was suitable for the era, and all complimented by a good Orchestra.

Brilliant choreorgraphy enhanced the production, Congratulations to Director Kevin and Choregrapher Joanne.  Well done everyone.

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