Having seen Annie before, I was in the fortunate position of being able to focus less on the storyline and more on everything else happening on stage.
I’m so glad I did, because there was plenty to enjoy. The choreography and staging were fantastic, with some incredible dance numbers happening behind the main characters, all performed with real precision and adding so much to the overall production.
The costumes were another highlight, with multiple changes for the ensemble, while their harmonies added another layer to the show and really helped bring the bigger numbers to life.
That’s not to say the main characters weren’t worth watching. Claire Sweeney as Miss Hannigan was fantastic, with a strong voice and plenty of character. To make a great villain.
Grace Farrell (Amelia Adams) was played with elegance and warmth, while the young cast were brilliant throughout.
But for me, Daddy Warbucks ( Alex Bourne) was the standout of the night. His voice was absolutely delicious and a real pleasure to listen to.
There were moments where his performance genuinely made me quite emotional, particularly when he thought he had lost Annie. A fantastic job.
Even if Annie isn’t your favourite musical, this production is definitely worth watching. There’s plenty going on to make it an super night at the theatre
and of course – the regular appearance of the super cute canine character Sandy running across stage was a lovely sight enjoyed by many little theatre-goers, and maybe this older one too!
Annie is showing at The Bristol Hippodrome until August 23rd. Tickets available from £16 at ATG.com