Theatre Review: Annie at the Alexandra Theatre Birmingham
AD: This Press Night Review refers to the 2026 Touring Production of Annie The Musical at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham*
An 1885 poem about a little orphaned girl named Annie became a 1924 comic strip. And then it became a book, and finally a musical on stage and screen (twice). 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. That dream never came true, so instead I make do with taking Ma Lee to watch this Press Night performance at the Alexandra.
Directed by Nikolai Foster, Annie is a whirlwind of a show. Set in 1930s New York, the story follows the titular Annie, an orphan who dreams of her birth parents returning to claim her, and therefore escaping the clutches of the tyrannical Miss Hannigan (La Voix). 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 a fight.
La Voix is a hilariously horrible Miss Hannigan in a permanent state of inebriation or hangover. I almost wish that there was more Miss Hannigan in this show. I’ve previously seen Craig Revel-Horwood in the same role, but I have to say that I much preferred La Voix’s interpretation. She nails the comic timing and exaggerated self-pity, and shows off some of those moves learned during her sadly abbreviated stint on Strictly Come Dancing. I hope CRH gave her some tips.
NB: Claire Sweeney will take over the role of Miss Hannigan on the UK Tour from 7th July in Cardiff
Our Annie for the evening was Sophia Saravanan who shares the role with June Young & Victoria Alsina as is usual for a cast full of young performers. As Annie, Sophia is sparky, charming and kind, and sees the best in everyone. Her voice soars above the orchestra, captivates the audience and she lights up the stage. An ensemble of incredible orphans deliver energy and abundance aplenty. And naturally, Sandy the dog (played by Dizzy) steals every scene that they are in. Sandy is very motivated by treats. I feel a strong kinship.
Alex Bourne is a commanding and sophisticated Oliver Warbucks; his relationship with Annie is heart-warming and we clearly see the gradual softening from tough businessman to doting father. Tanisha-Mae Brown is a flawless and elegant Grace Farrell; she portrays wonderful chemistry with Sophia.
Christian Cooper and Amber Kennedy are the show’s true villains as scheming confidence tricksters Rooster and Lily. Their rendition of “Easy Street” with La Voix is one of the highlights of the show, with high energy and slick choreography. In fact, Nick Winston’s dynamic choreography is top-notch throughout, with a wonderfully executed tap sequence which is very reminiscent of “Anything Goes”.
The gentle hum of a radio broadcast greets the audience as we enter the auditorium, with some of our orphans already on stage in their dormitory setting. 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 by the large ensemble, fitting into multiple roles from housekeeping staff to politicians.
Annie is a proper feel-good, family-friendly show, and is a sheer delight from start to finish. If you “think you’re gonna like it here”, book your tickets now!
Annie is at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham until Saturday 6th June 2026. Purchase your tickets here. The UK Tour continues until March 2027; for a full list of dates, visit the official Annie the Musical website.
Photo Credits: Paul Coltas
*Why is this post marked AD? I was invited to attend Press Night in exchange for an honest review. You can trust that I will always be honest and truthful on A Brummie Home and Abroad, and being an invited guest will not influence my opinion in any way.
