Annie

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Some things can go wrong, even in the best of societies, and this evening that was the over amplification of the sound system at the opening of the show which seemed to sadly distort the words of the actors.  That was quickly amended then we settled down to an absolutely rollicking and very enjoyable performance.
 Annie and the orphans opened the show with not a movement wrong or a word out of place; they all gave the impression that they had been on stage for years.   Miss Hannigan (Louise Whyte) was the delightful drunkard warden who, despite her uncaring treatment of the orphans, you couldn’t help but love.  She, together with her brother Rooster Hannigan (Chris Nuttall) and his lady friend Lily St Regis (Christa D’Apolito) provided some very entertaining and well understated comedy throughout the show.  Mr Oliver Warbucks (Stephen Jamieson) was absolutely perfectly cast, he was the epitome of a business magnate yet also easily depicted that homely, fatherly figure to perfection.  His singing voice I could have happily listened to all evening, particularly in his rendition of ‘Why should I change a thing?’ which received rapturous applause from the audience.  His PA Grace Farrell (Claire Adams) again was beautifully cast combining the well sung and spoken elegant, efficient secretary with the ‘Auntie’ type character that easily won Annie’s love.  The Head Butler, Drake (Andy Bean), happily surprised everyone towards the end of the show with his so ‘out of character’ joyous reactions to Annie finally becoming an adopted member of the household.  President Roosevelt (Alan Hirst) provided a very competent and likeable portrayal, even correctly confined to his period styled wheelchair.
The one thing I did not like about the production was the obvious use of a biro pen for potentially signing a document.  It was not until 1938 that a patent was taken out for a biro and I don’t think even Mr Warbucks would have possessed one before then!!
As always with this society, the smaller principal parts were all very well played, the chorus singing and movement was impeccable, backed with excellent staging, sets, lighting, costumes and a first class, well controlled orchestra.  The only cast member who didn’t seem 100% happy was Sandy (the dog) played by Brinkley who, at times, refused to walk and had to be dragged to his position on stage, then sat with his back to the audience in an obvious sulk!!   Even this did nothing to throw or upset the wonderful, natural performance of Annie (Katie-Mae Ramsey).  This young lady very completely held the show together giving a first class performance in every aspect of the word, her libretto was delivered confidently, naturally, believably and without any affectation.  Her singing voice was true with plenty of power, good diction and good breath control and she moved about the stage in a completely natural way.
Well done everyone – a super show.
 
 

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