ANNIE GET YOUR GUN

The 1999 Peter Stone’s revival got away with a minimalist set with generally well-lit and appropriate colourful costumes. Sound was not always well balanced.

Peter Kennedy took the role of Frank Butler and although preferring comedy, made a charismatic romantic lead. Annie, played by Claire Cranston  moved ably into ‘back-woods’ image and her transition from rough to sweet singing voice was seamless. Her augmented family (Little Jake plus four sisters) were delightful - roles clearly enjoyed by Ethan McGee, Catherine McGee, Anna Lenzi, Demi Lea Weir and Nicole Bell. Vivian Shepherd played Dolly Tate with spirit. An assured performance also from Rachel Boal as younger sister Winnie, who was teamed well with Rea Campbell-Hill as Tommy Keeler. He showed himself to be a great ‘hoofer’.  Colin Gregg was exactly right as Buffalo Bill; David Gray (Pawnee Bill) and David Mehaffey Chief Sitting Bull) made convincing Red Indians. Tim Carter, as Charlie Davenport, seemed like a typically OTT road manager and Foster Wilson (Desi Martin) a frustrated hotel owner!  Six well-drilled dancers fronted the enthusiastic chorus showing experience in ensemble numbers  and fun in backing to “My Defences are Down” (listed with tongue-in-cheek as “young men” in the programme!)

Wilfie directed an entertaining company show  which had something for everyone. Angela’s choreography was varied according to differing abilities and the 12 piece orchestra under the baton of the energetic MD Ian Milford was well controlled.

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