Annie Jnr

Hats off to The Drama Depts debut performance of Annie Jnr. To see what had been achieved in only six weeks rehearsal time with a cast of ages ranging from 6 to 15 years old is amazing.

Yes, unfortunately at times the dialogue and vocals from individuals was a little quiet, but I fully understand and appreciate that you can’t possibly mic up 28+ children and stay sane or solvent.

Well Done Director Michael Jones McCaw. You and your team have moved mountains and produced an amazing show. It is very clear to see that you love what you do and that The Drama Dept is a Family from start to finish.

The set was very simple. It worked perfectly with the cast and allowed the ensemble to deliver their perfectly drilled dance routines throughout the show. What I personally particularly enjoy from a Tracy Harper choreographed number is the constant movement throughout. Your eye is drawn every which way, desperate to not miss anything. These well drilled movements combined with the vocal coaching and musical direction from Gary Jones McCaw was a triumph from me . Every child on that stage was enjoying every single second. The props used were pertinent to each particular scene and were well handled by such a young and relatively inexperienced cast. If a bucket got kicked over it was quickly and quietly removed by a cast member without detracting from the dialogue going on around it.

The show was well costumed, each character was easily recognisable. It is not easy to turn a child into an adult character yet still retain the child side, however, I feel that  this was perfectly achieved.

Jess Corpes as Miss Hannigan gave us a lovely strong characterisation, her vocals were gritty ( in a good way) and you could certainly empathise with her delivery of “Little Girls”. I particularly enjoyed the performance of “Easy Street” by Jess Rooster - Daniel Eccles and Lily- Jess Haslam. It was very clear that they enjoyed every second.

The role of Lily is a relatively small part within the show but Jess Haslam claimed it and made it her own, she is definitely one to keep an eye on.

Rooster - Daniel Eccles was self assured and confident in his part, he showed us plenty of swagger. I look forward to seeing him develop further within his stage family.

Grace Farrell- Lucy Williams delivered her part well and kept her accent throughout. She interacted nicely with Oliver Warbucks - Alex Lythe. Alex portrayed his part well especially the inner turmoil he felt upon wanting to adopt Annie himself yet helping her find her parents.

Annie - Heidi Winn was super to watch. She made me believe that she really was Annie and not just someone playing the part. Her vocals were exceptional, her use of the stage and interaction with Sandy played by Monty was confident and lovely to see in one so young. Another name to keep an eye on for the future.

I could go on and single out every person on the stage, but it would take too long/ So, instead, I will say Super Well Done Everyone! Your standing ovation was very well deserved and I look forward to seeing your future productions.

Thank you for your hospitality and enthusiasm on such a hot day. It certainly wasn’t a Hard Knock Life for me coming to see your production and I look forward to seeing you all again very soon.

 

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