Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield – until 21 October 2023
Reviewed by Alison Beaumont
5*****
For anyone that doesn’t know the story of Annie, it is about a young girl “Annie” who lives a life of drudgery in an orphanage run by Miss Hannighan. Annie is chosen to spend the Christmas period with a billionaire Mr Oliver Warbucks. Mr Warbucks falls adores Annie and wants to adopt her, but Annie is intent on finding her parents who left her at the orphanage all those years ago.
Annie is one of my all-time favourite films from my childhood so I was really excited to see this musical and I left as happy as when I went in.
Miss Hannighan was played by the famous Craig Revel-Horwood. His dancing, singing and acting skills are without doubt amazing, I’m not sure I will be able to look at him the same again on Strictly Come Dancing. He was just “fab-u-lous darling”. Some of the performances are being played by Jodie Prenger who I am sure will also make a brilliant Miss Hannigan. I do feel it would be poignant not to mention the late Paul O’Grady who everyone knew and loved who played this role, I’m sure both Craig and Jodie have found it hard to follow in his footsteps.
As is usual for the casting of roles for main parts for children each role has three children playing them and, on this occasion, Annie, was played by Harlie Barthram. Harlie performed exceptionally and sounded so like Annie she really did get the character spot on and was for me the perfect Annie. She captures Annie’s cheekiness and plays the role with such confidence. She wasn’t fazed by Sandy (the dog) when he was trying to find the treats in her pockets.
Amelia Adams is delightful as Grace Farrell and her vocal and acting skills make her the right choice for the maternal mother figure for Annie.
Molly on this occasion was played by little Chloe Angiama who was so cute and adorable.
All the children were very talented and have got bright futures ahead of them.
The orchestra was very good although I did feel that at times, they were a little bit loud when the children were singing but Harlie rose above it when she sang the iconic song “Tomorrow”.
This show is for all ages and will certainly not disappoint.