Annie

Annie is an iconic musical with some standout songs and characters. I was intrigued to see how Mossley AODS would bring their version of Annie to life under the direction of Samantha Hughes. We entered the packed auditorium to an open stage and some beds and bunk beds in the apron. There was audience seating to three sides. On the stage three LED screens were hung portrait style with the orchestra conducted by John Barry cleverly hidden behind some sets of steps led from the stage onto the apron area.  The show itself was quite minimalistic with physical scenery but relied heavily on props and dressing. Lighting and LED screens by MSL Group worked in sync with each other and with the scenes going on on stage. Sound by Tom Maurice was very good throughout with no gremlins, drops or feedback . Costumes by Charades Theatrical Costume hire were very fitting to the characters.

Under the watchful eye of Katherine Farrow as Choreographer, this cast brought Annie to life with attitude. I especially enjoyed “Hard Knock Life” and “Hooverville”, there was some real synchronicity. Moves were executed with confidence and precision. Paul Firth was Musical Director for this production and I was delighted to clearly hear all the ends of words and all the distinct harmonies, it was obvious that this was a well drilled team that I was watching.

The Orphans are the first people we meet and they opened the show with punch and attitude. They were confident, endearing and funny.  They really connected with the audience. Paul Firth as Miss Hannigan was such a refreshing change, he brought her character to life in such a way that we could understand why Annie (Sylvie Hoyle) saves her in the end. He was understated and calm, even in the pursuit of Bundles played by George Devlin it was kept very light and almost tongue in cheek instead of the usual raunch. John Wood is an absolute pleasure to watch – he is so believable in his characterisation, he showed us Warbucks`s much softer side. I found myself almost tearing up when he sang “ Something Was Missing” he had some superb chemistry on stage with Sylvie Hoyle as Annie. Laura Meredith Hoyle as Grace Farrell showed us some impressive vocals and made a good connection with the audience, she too had some incredible chemistry on stage with Sylvie – not surprising really as they are mother and daughter in real life, the apple doesn`t fall far from the tree when we mention Sylvie`s beautifully controlled rendition of “Tomorrow”. Sandy the dog played by Sonny got the usual 'aww' when he appeared and Sylvie did well working on stage with a dog – always unpredictable. Nick Ward and Molly Griffiths as Rooster and Lily St Regis were larger than life characters, they definitely took control of the stage space when they appeared. Mat Hepplestone as Drake performed with just enough gravitas. David Noble as President Roosevelt brought an air of calmness to the character, he didn`t rush yet he showed some good pace. Sylvie Hoyle as Annie held her own on stage with all these confident characters, she brought Annie to life in a way that I haven`t seen before and it was refreshing, her vocals were strong and clear, she connected well with the audience, her dialogue was clear and sharp.  

The ensemble work hard in this show, a lot of the numbers are full on from start to finish and at no point did the energy drop, well done! This show was West End worthy, you should all be very proud of yourselves. Thank you for inviting me, I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

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