Annie Jnr

CAOS Academy bring Annie Jnr to the Eppic Theatre, whilst a much shortened version from the full musical nothing of the traditional story is lost in this Junior production. From the very first ‘Maybe’ to the last ‘Tomorrow ‘the enthusiasm from every cast member was infectious.  The whole production team Amy H, Amy A, Poppy, Claire, David C and David N must be credited with the way this production was directed along with bringing out the very best from all their young actors. The story of Annie needs no explanation as its rags to riches outcome for the poor orphan, leads to her being adopted by the multi-millionaire Warbucks. The set simple but totally effective along with subtle scene changes seamlessly organised by the excellent back stage team. As the title implies the musical is about Annie but cleverly written providing many smaller named cameo roles, The named orphans Eliza, Ava, Bethany, Rowan, Cydney and Willow all performed really well, their clarity in prose and total conviction when singing was truly commendable. I really enjoyed not only the singing but also the staging and movement during ‘Hard Knock Life’.  Miss Hannigan by Isobel Chandler, the alcohol swigging orphanage boss, a powerful nasty performance keeping the girls in check maintaining your character throughout along with your delivery of ‘Little Girls’.

Luca, Abbie, Benjamin and Lucy performing varying roles including Bundles, Apple Seller, Star to be, Dogcatcher and Officer Ward/Mrs Greer. 4 very competent performers who clearly gave their all delivering well accented and clear lines and Abbie with the well delivered. ‘Star to be ‘lines during NYC. Grace Farrell by Amy Leigh-Lucas, Oliver Warbucks secretary, lovely characterisation and clear delivery during your varying scenes with Hannigan, Warbucks and tender moments looking after Annie. Ms Drake by Mollie Harding and Annette Pugh / President Roosevelt by Josephine Higgs, two competent actors who both delivered clear lines showing poise and lovely stage presence.

Oliver Warbucks by George Strutt, this role requires a strong competent performance, showing true stiff upper lip , tough businessman and later sharing and admitting you can have all the wealth in the world but without love life is very empty. You delivered all those attributes very well.

We then meet the not so innocent pair of Rooster by Lucas Battersby, Hannigan’s brother, along with his girlfriend Lily performed by Tilly Fisher. Two good young performers who worked well today. Great fun delivery of Easy Street with Hannigan, but your devious plan failed miserably when the truth came out. Two more cameo performances by Humphry and Jackson. Of course, we mustn’t forget the great work by the very competent ensemble members of Alfie, Charlotte, Rosie, Heidi, Rosajasmine and Amelia. Well done to you all.

Annie performed by Darcy Lyons-Dennis , you should be delighted by the standard you achieved, wonderful and truly meaningful delivery of ‘Tomorrow’. lovely involvement during ‘NYC’ and ‘You Wont Be An Orphan For Long’ > Fully involved throughout, well-acted and performed with ease. You spoke clearly and sang with confidence. An iconic part played well.

The costumes were well chosen and very in period, the staging all worked well and I must complement David Nettleton for his excellent piano playing throughout. A joyous fun production , well done to you all.

Thank you to all the FOH members who made us very welcome.

Philip Smith

Noda North East District 6 Reg Rep

 

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