In our modern world, there is a lot to be miserable about. But a musical like 'Annie' is like a golden anecdote, a little ray of sunshine, that strives to change all that.
This forward-looking show about a little girl that focuses on a brighter tomorrow is one that is full of promise and hope.
It's almost 50 years since 'Annie' debuted on Broadway. It’s also over 100 years since the 'Little Orphan Annie' comic strip which inspired the show and book by Thomas Meehan debuted in NY’s Daily News. That this still resonates with audiences and remains a much-beloved story, is a testament to its timeless, wholesome qualities, which are a perfect panacea to any ailment.
There will be people who may question whether Australia needed another revival of this show, as there are new musicals being written all the time. But John Frost Live has fashioned a production that stays true to the heart and soul of the original story while also augmenting it with some new features. The latter includes some animated motifs, which draw audiences back to scenes such as New York's Chrysler Building, plus the handsome cabs and high-roof classic cars of that bygone era.
Image © Daniel Boud
Director, Karen Johnson Mortimer returns to the helm of this latest production. She is united with Anthony Warlow who reprises his leading role of eccentric billionaire, Oliver Warbucks (which he has performed no less than four times). Warbucks wishes to entertain an orphan at his mansion for Christmas and he is ultimately enchanted by Annie's charms. The titular character is performed by four upcoming talents with the opening night seeing Dakota Chanel bringing an effervescent air to the proceedings.
Annie is an absolutely spunky character. She steals the scenes, even the opening scenes set in the orphanage run by the mean and manipulative Miss Hannigan (Debora Krizak 'The Producers'). Annie challenges several wealthy, American men, even influencing no less than the President of the United States (played by original yellow Wiggle, Greg Page, who does a great job in his musical theatre debut).
There are so many highlights in this rags-to-riches show. Many people will be bopping along to the revelry of cleaning in 'It’s the Hard Knock Life'. They will also bask in the sunny optimism of 'Tomorrow'. The ensemble cast of young girls included some very cute moments. But perhaps the most gorgeous and heart-warming of all is when Sandy the dog graces the stage and has the audience eating out of its paws.
Image © Daniel Boud
This show is a family-friendly affair, even if there is some scheming by Rooster Hannigan and Lily St. Regis (played by Keanu Gonzalez and Mackenzie Dunn, who recently performed in 'Grease'). This production will appeal to multiple generations of fans. It also feels like a family affair as this performance was dedicated to the first Australian one (which featured Dunn’s grandparents, no less). Warlow and spouse, Amanda Lea Lavergne, also perform opposite each other so naturally they share a lovely chemistry.
The set by Kenneth Foy is very lavish (well at the Warbucks mansion at least). There are also some funny jibes about the artworks adorning his walls which make this a funny musical comedy. The costumes by Kristian Fredrikson go from very dour greys in the orphanage to hues that pop as Annie’s fortunes change. The music by Charles Strouse includes some lovely ballads as well as show-stopping tunes that will have your toes tapping in your seats.
'Annie' is the kind of sweet musical that radiates heart and soul in spades. With its sunny look at family, friendship and glass-half-full optimism, it would be hard to walk away from this one without beaming from ear to ear. There is a reason this show remains a fan favourite, and that is because it continues to resonate with its timeless messages.
In the end, there will always be darkness – but hopefully there are many more tomorrows filled with laughter and light.
Words: Natalie Salvo
