Annie

Annie was without exception a showcase for KAODS talent and enthusiasm.  The show moved at an excellent pace throughout – no doubt the result of hard work from the cast and a dedicated production team.  The whole production “shone” (like the top of the Chrysler Building!).  Director Andrew Walton should be extremely thrilled with the brilliant end result. 

Saffron Ingham was wonderful as orphan Annie.  Her clear diction and excellent singing voice were a delight to listen to and she had amazing stage presence.  I think this young lady has a bright future ahead of her in the theatrical world.

Julian Freeman played the role of Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks with ease and gentleness, but was likeably commanding when required – and his scenes with Annie were so touching.

The orphans were all brilliant – and boy, could they sing and dance!  They all had their own individuality, but together they played a perfect team of orphans.  Their opening routine “It’s the Hard Knock Life” had so much energy and enthusiasm in it, which continued throughout the whole show.

Fiona Spencer played the part of Grace Farrell with elegance and refinement, and was lovely to watch and listen to.

Kathryn Sullivan gave a great character performance of the permanently inebriated Miss Hannigan, and she had brilliant support from Paula Randall as Lily St Regis and Peter Whitley as Daniel “Rooster” Hannigan.  Their rendition of “Easy Street” was superb.

Special mention must be made with regard to the “Cabinet” scene.  This must be the slickest and best performance of this scene I have ever seen.  It really moved at a pace, and there was so much humour in it without going “over the top”.

And also a special mention to Dexter, who played “Sandy” – the cutest dog I have ever seen play this part.  There was obviously a very special rapport between “Sandy” and Annie – and Dexter was so well behaved!

The music was in the hands of John Sandland, and his orchestra blended superbly throughout the production, from the first brass solo of the Overture to the final note of the Walk Out music they were a delight!  An asset to this production - congratulations! 

The dance routines were excellently choreographed by Judith Chapman and she must be congratulated for drilling those orphans so well!

The set was brilliant – congratulations to James Jennings as Stage Director, and to his team for being able to handle the set and props so well in such a confined space.  The interior of “Daddy” Warbuck’s mansion was particularly impressive.

There was full support from all the cast – all characters, ensemble and dancers.  Everyone’s diction was excellent and it was a joy to hear every word spoken and every note sung.

The costumes, props, furniture and lighting all enhanced this excellent production.

Congratulations to everyone involved.
 

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