Annie
The tale of orphan Annie's search for her real parents is given a refreshing, and perhaps more intimate, makeover, and brings together a cast brimming with energy and enthusiasm.
Norwich Theatre
It is almost two years since I saw Annie performed on the main stage at Norwich Theatre Royal. It was a touring production with spectacular sets and a cast that included Strictly's Craig Revel Harwood donning a frock to play liquor-loving orphanage manager Miss Hannigan. It was a lavish show with a big budget, and Craig was certainly 'fab-u-lous'.
This week Norwich audiences again have the chance to revel in Annie's story, but in a brand new production, and this time staged just across the river at Norwich Theatre Playhouse. In a show co-produced by two locally based theatre companies – Threshold Theatre Company and Echo Youth Theatre, the tale of orphan Annie's search for her real parents is given a refreshing, and perhaps more intimate, makeover, and brings together a cast brimming with energy and enthusiasm.
Directed by Jenni Newman, and choreographed by Carole Beatty, the show features a huge cast of players, all squeezed onto the Playhouse's modestly sized stage, and providing a spectacular and moving version of this most favourite of stage musicals. The 14-piece orchestra, led by Musical Director Acer Smith, is cleverly concealed behind an elevated platform above the stage, but is lit for us to see as they perform the opening overtures to each of the two acts.
The role of Annie is tonight played by Kitty Denny, who is making her Echo Youth Theatre debut, and who is truly impressive – her performance filled with charisma and confidence, and yet she is still capable of blending in for the big dance numbers, and become a true team player. Holly Graham's experience in musical theatre really shines through as she brings to life the role of Miss Hannigan with both comedy and a tangible sense of menace. She provides the perfect contrast to Ben Woodward's amiable and philanthropic Oliver Warbucks, and to Kate Patry as his charming and considerate assistant Grace Farrell.
With the best known songs 'Hard Knock Life' and 'Tomorrow' both coming early in Act One, it is a credit to all concerned that this show successfully holds my attention for the entire two hours without my ever having to check my watch once. All the actors genuinely seemed to be enjoying themselves, and that kind of energy is truly infectious.
With all remaining performances completely sold out it may seem a bit mean to keep going on about how good this show is, but perhaps the message is clear. We are so very grateful to have the blockbuster touring musicals come to Norwich Theatre Royal as part of their UK tours, but we also have some cracking local companies putting on shows as well. So put away your TV remotes, pop the DVDs back in their cases, and get out and enjoy some top class musicals and live theatre here in Norwich.
