Annie jr

Annie jr.

The Blackmore Youth Theatre

Book by Thomas Meehan; Music by Charles Strouse; Lyrics by Martin Charnin

Directed by Tracey Hamilton

Co-Directed by Mike Hamilton

Musical Director: Naomi Blundell

Choreographer: Tracey Hamilton
Lighting Designer & Operator: Jake Van De Burgt

Stage Manager: Gill Bates

The Blackmore Theatre, Exmouth

Thursday 13th & Saturday 15th June 2019

The sun may have been hiding behind the clouds during the month of June but it certainly came out by the bucketful in this adaptation of Annie, written especially for junior groups and containing all the favourite characters and well-known songs of the original.  From the opening number the story breezed along at a cracking pace, and the enthusiasm and energy of the young performers, all just between 7 & 16 years old, simply shone out into the auditorium. The two youngsters alternating in the part of little orphan Annie, one more ethereal and quietly determined while the other more feisty and up-front, both wowed their audiences in the role, stepping seamlessly back into the chorus and as the “Star to Be”  on the other performances. The young actor playing “billionaire” Oliver Warbucks showed a maturity and understanding of the character, and was charmingly supported by his secretary Grace– the epitome of her name.  The three protagonists on “Easy Street” were very well interpreted, Miss Hannigan a sour two-faced harridan, Rooster a rascally scoundrel and his girl-friend Lily looking good and with her eye always on the main chance , they didn’t miss a beat! Butler Drake made a distinct and deferential impression and was definitely in charge of the household, while Officer Ward was the essence of a New York cop, clearly relishing his role! The radio show sequence was particularly enjoyable with a memorable Bert Healy as the presenter accompanied by the three delightful Boyland Sisters, their “enthusiasm” disguised by their bored expressions and body language, and much to Annie’s bewilderment a “hand tap-dancing” Sound Effects Man!  The large cast of 35 in a seemingly multitude of roles gave a great company feel to the production and certainly must have made for a hectic time backstage! The singing and dancing were well orchestrated with some dynamic chorus numbers, and while everything was disciplined and slickly organised there was a strong feeling of a very happy ship. The scene changes were smoothly handled by the cast under the guidance of an experienced Stage Manager, costumes and props were just right, the backdrops of the NY skyline, orphanage and mansion very impressive, and the lighting well-designed and operated by another talented young member of the team. Overall this was a very fast moving show and on occasion the snap blackouts and quick scene changes could have been held for just a beat, giving the audience a moment to appreciate and reflect before moving on, however BYT should be congratulated for a stunning and engaging first production, all “fully dressed” with lots of smiles on stage and in the audience, and the dog was lovely too! Well done!

‘Tricia Barclay

NODA SW Representative District 6

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