Annie

Annie is always a good way to increase audience numbers and attracts new members into an established company.  When the production values are high and discipline good then these young folk thrive and learn vital skills to support future theatrical adventures. 

The story of orphan Annie over coming everything to find happiness in the home of Daddy Warbucks despite the best attempts of Miss. Hannigan is a favourite with most and this show would not have disappointed.  

Making his directorial debut Scott Rogers has shaped a good company with some strong performances, the orphans stormed through the show displaying great energy, optimism and were an engaging force to be reckoned with.  

In the title role, at the this performance, Hollie Jones showed a good singing voice and clearly understood the character of Annie, her relationship with the other orphans was believable and the support of the “gang” made the classic numbers “Hard Knock Life” and the reprise of “Never fully dressed without a smile” a real treat.  Choreography from Sophie Baxter was both challenging and energetic, the hours of rehearsals paid off with the impressive results. 

Joanne Meredith (Miss. Hannigan) kept the pace alive and evidently enjoyed the great numbers allowed to the character. Jonathan Dick (Rooster) and Sharon George (Lily) made up the dodgy trio. Both Duncan Mitchell (Warbucks) and Emily Ford (Grace) worked well to create the millionaire lifestyle and the need for Annie in their lives. 

As with the opening sequence of the show in the orphanage, the first section of Act 2 at the Radio Station was well constructed and directed ensuring that the evening kept up a good pace and the younger members of the audience captivated. 

The orchestra with Lee Teasdale directing was in fine fettle, supporting the young singers and company numbers well. 

The simple set allowed smooth scene changes and the use of the walkway allowed the company to reach the audience across the pit. The use of the staging was good, allowing the bigger company numbers to be successful without looking too crowded. 

The costumes and hair were of a good style and the overall vision for the show was successful.  The ticket sells and feedback following the performance reflected that KLOG have indeed hit a home run.

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