Annie Jr

A splendid array of young talent presented the story and music about the orphan Annie. Freya McIntosh excelled in this leading role. Her pure sweet voice with wonderfully controlled notes came across naturally and unforced. She gained attention for her control of the orphans, her understanding of young Molly’s fears and her determination to manage her own life. She had the audience with her from first to last. Fern Waddell gave a strong characterisation of Molly, with a forceful voice, impressing before the audience worked out who she was. The other leading orphans squabbled and knuckled down beautifully. Imogen McKay as Pepper stood out with a defiant stance and as peppery as her name. All the orphans sang and moved in character and dealt joyously with famous songs Maybe, It’s A Hard-Knock Life, and You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile. Trying to rise above the orphans, Isla McIntosh caught the essence of the frustrated and bullying Miss Hannigan making a memorable delivery of Little Girls. She showed herself to be willing to be in cahoots with her sly brother Rooster and his side-kick Lily in posing as Annie’s parents. Eilidh Arthur caught the wide boy aspect of Rooster and Roni Sneddon was obviously a ‘moll on the make’. The trio did justice to the famous ‘Easy Street’ number. In contrast, Carice Baillie imbued the role of Grace Warbuck’s secretary, with dignity and efficiency and Macy Davidson had the difficult job of portraying Mr Warbucks as the single minded business man who melted in growing affection for Annie. Minor principals delivered too from, the likes of Drake (Ava McLusky) Mrs Greer (Robyn Sneddon) Mrs Pugh and innocent Bundles (Eva Waddell) to the precocious Bert Healey (Angus Graham). All the cast impressed with clear diction, spoken and sung, no problem following this story, and maintained accents. All chorus singing and movement was delivered confidently and with some interesting choreography. Dancers performed aesthetically and smoothly. Scenes segued into each other with a slick backstage crew. This production was well directed, sung and performed. The young folk radiated enjoyment in what they were doing and their talent and hard work was plain to see. The finale came all too soon. Great entertainment. Congratulations to all.

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