Theatre Review: Annie
AD: This Press Night Review refers to the 2023 Touring Production of Annie The Musical at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham*
An 1885 poem about a little orphaned girl named Annie became a comic strip. And then it became a book, and finally a musical on stage and screen. As a freckled, curly-haired child, with a penchant for breaking into song at every opportunity, Annie felt like my alter-ago. If only I could get rid of my parents, find a rich man to adopt me and gain a cute pup called Sandy. And yet, I don’t remember ever sitting down and watching the 1982 film (or the 2014 remake). I knew the big songs but I went into this press night performance not quite knowing what to expect.
This production, directed by Nikolai Foster, is a whirlwind of a show. Set in 1930s New York, the story follows the titular Annie, an orphan just longing to find her parents, and to escape the clutches of evil Miss Hannigan (Craig Revel-Horwood). When a billionaire decides to open his home to an orphan at Christmas, Annie sees her opportunity for both. But is she destined for a “Hard Knock Life” forever? After all, Miss Hannigan is not going to let Annie go without some financial recompense.
Craig Revel Horwood is a hilariously horrible Miss Hannigan in a permanent state of inebriation or hangover. With excellent vocals and the easy fluid movement of a dancer, he effortlessly embraces the role. Even if the New York accent does waver a little at times. I almost wish that there was more Miss Hannigan in this show.
**It feels wrong to review Annie without paying tribute to Paul O’Grady, who shared the role of Miss Hannigan with Craig Revel Horwood on this tour. His sad passing is a great loss to the world of entertainment and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time**
Our Annie for the evening was Zoe Akinyosade who rotates the role with Harlie Barthram & Poppy Cunningham. She’s sparky and charming and kind and sees the best in everyone. Her voice soars above the orchestra and captivates the audience. An ensemble of incredible orphans deliver energy and abundance aplenty. And naturally, Sandy the dog (played by Lily) steals every scene that they are in.
David Burrows (covering for Alex Bourne is this performance) is a sophisticated Oliver Warbucks; his relationship with Annie is heartwarming. Paul French and Billie-Kay are the show’s true villains as low-life confidence tricksters Rooster and Lily. Their rendition of “Easy Street” with Revel-Horwood is one of the highlights of the show, with high energy and slick choreography. In fact, Nick Winston’s choreography is top-notch throughout, with some wonderful tap-dancing.
The set changes are slick and the colours and lighting reflect the Great Depression setting. With a flick of a spotlight, the stage transforms a squalid and dull palette to bright colours full of sparkle. Every inch of the Alexandra’s stage is utilised. Unforeseen circumstances do mean that there is an abrupt end to the first act, but other than that, the performance goes off without a hitch. A quick search on Wikipedia fills in the plot gap, which sees Warbucks promising to help Annie find her parents with the help of his FBI contacts.
Annie is a proper family-friendly show, and is a sheer delight from start to finish. Don’t wait for the sun to come out (tomorrow) – book your tickets now!
Annie is at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham until Saturday 15th April 2023. Purchase your tickets here. The UK Tour continues until November 2023; for a full list of dates, visit the official Annie the Musical website.
Photo Credits: Matt Crockett
