ANNIE GET YOUR GUN

Report

Author: Sheelagh Hobart

This show was the revised version by Peter Stone for the 1999 Broadway revival. The plot and most of the dialogue was retained. “An Old-fashioned Wedding” was added, but we lost “I’m an In’jun too” and its accompanying scene - perhaps it wouldn’t be PC nowadays!

The very young chorus gained confidence as the show progressed - well drilled in choreography by Suzanne. Rebecca Cullen grabbed the role of Annie Oakley with both hands – she truly portrayed the character and her singing, both raucous and sweet, was excellent. Vincent Ryan gave a solid, contrasting performance as Frank Butler – ’though in “Anything you can do…” they both let the sparks fly!

Brenda Swift (Dolly Tate) and Clare Teague (Winnie Tate) were very well cast with Rory McCarney as Tommy Keeler, Winnie’s boyfriend/husband. They all sang well – a pity her role did not allow us to hear more from Brenda. Wild West Show Manager, Charlie Davenport, was played convincingly by Martin Donnelly whose persona never waivered. Smaller principal roles, including Chief Sitting Bull (Gerry Murphy), Buffalo Bill (Andy Avery), Foster Wilson (Damien McGirr) and Pawnee Bill (John Illand were well covered. Ellen Cupples, Megan Ryan and Thomas Corrigan were delightful as Jessie, Nellie and Little Jake – especially when poor and scruffy!

The female led production team combined to present a good show. The Set, designed and made by cast members, was a little sparse in some scenes. Sound was fine; Lighting occasionally left someone in the dark. Costumes were fresh and colourful.