Annie Jr

“Annie” is a challenging show for any director. Characterization needs to be clear and recognisable, musical numbers, many of which are well known, need to be secure and choreography needs to on point.    Digswell Players Youth group, Young Expressions, will never shy away from a challenge and at the performance I witnessed, their first night I might say, certainly came up to the mark.

Scenery, though simple, worked well and allowed the maximum amount of space to be utilised on the compact stage.   Lighting was appropriate and the main acting area was well lit most of the time.

The band, a quartet of young musicians played exceptionally well and supported the cast throughout. It is vital however to remember that the musicians and the cast need to work as a team. Soloists need to listen carefully to the music as at times there was a tendency to race and then the melody became unsecure and a little sharp.

Appropriate attention was given to wardrobe and makeup and I particularly liked the choice of outfits for Grace.

From the moment the curtain went up, the enthusiasm of this young, twenty-four strong cast was apparent. Facial expressions were good and body language demonstrated the various characters the general company was portraying at different moments in the story. This showed good preparations during rehearsals. Well done.

Lucy Dale in the title role as Annie was strong both in dialogue and singing and showed maturity in performance and command of the stage.

Hannah Kirby performed well as Miss Hannigan, but I think that perhaps first night nerves may have got the better of her and at times she needed a little more control especially when she was required to be inebriated.  

Beth Marshall did a fine job as Mr. Warbucks, her dialogue demonstrating care and concern without being mushy and Hatty Gouldstone and Connie Marshall worked well together, as Rooster and Lily St Regis respectively.

The cameo role of President Roosevelt was delivered confidently by Joe Bonfield.

Esther Bishop was perfect in the role of Grace. She showed efficiency, care and humor and whenever she delivered her dialogue one felt real understanding behind the lines. An intelligent performance with excellent musical interpretation. I shall be very interested to watch this young actress progress in the future.

My congratulations go to Abigail Reck  on her directorial debut. You did a good job and should be proud of yourself.

Finally, mention has to be made of one of the most musical performers in the show. Leila who played the part of Sandy, Annie's dog. Never before have I seen a dog wag her tail in time to the music, but Leila could. Fabulous!!!

Thank you for your generous hospitality and I hope to see you all again soon.

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