Annie

Annie has long been a family favourite since it opened in Broadway in 1977, with many productions starring popular entertainers in the role of Miss Hannigan. And it’s not hard to see why with so many well known catchy tunes and the inevitable happy ending.

As usual with this group, there was an impressive set and great costumes, makeup and props. Scene changes were very slick and well organised by the backstage crew. Lighting was good and there were very few issues with sound despite what must have been quite a complicated plot.

One thing every production needs is a strong Annie and this was certainly the case on the night I attended, with Team Warbucks taking to the stage. However, I have no doubt that Team Hannigan was equally as impressive. Sienna was a lovely Annie. Not too sickly sweet and with a belting voice which made her big numbers seem effortless. She oozed character and gave a confident but relaxed portrayal throughout. Likewise the rest of the children were well rehearsed and sang and moved well. They were all lively and animated and I especially liked the strong arm movements in ‘Hard Knock Life’.

Miss Hannigan, the brash and flamboyant orphanage keeper, was played by Lou, who gave a really first rate performance as the loveable rogue and brought a lot of humour to the part.

Likewise her brother Rooster, played by Ryan and Charlotte, as his girlfriend Lily, had great fun as the scheming couple.

Gary as Daddy Warbucks gave an engaging and confident performance as this likeable billionaire. His scenes with Annie were particularly well acted. As his assistant Grace, Donna was a very natural performer with excellent stage presence.

Another strong performance was given by Andrew as President Roosevelt who clearly relished the role, delivering his dialogue and vocals with clarity, confidence and authority. I must also mention Sandy the dog, played by Roxy, who seemed completely unfazed by their time on stage and performed and behaved impeccably!

The ensemble were well rehearsed and vocally very strong. Choreography was also well imagined with some lovely patterns and plenty of variety. I especially loved the radio studio scene at the start of act 2, with excellent vocals from the Boylan Sisters (Claire, Georgina and Joni) as well as being great movers. The ventriloquist was aninspired idea with the young boy as the dummy doing some spot on lip synching.

This production had everything you could wish for. Talented and well rehearsed children, a cute dog, lovely scenery and costumes and a strong set of principals and ensemble. This really was the perfect feel good show for all the family and obviously very much enjoyed by the large audience. Very well done.

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