★★★★
Piccadilly Theatre, London – until 26 November 2017
Annie was banned from the house as a child due to it’s ear stinging renditions of ‘Tomorrow’. The current production of Annie at Piccadilly Theatre on the other hand would be welcomed in to the home. Great singing, bold choreography and an entire show of strong acting – this is a fresh and fun production of Annie.
Stomping, shouting and causing a riot; the orphaned girls bring attitude, spirit and strength to this production. Team Lexington, a group of 7 girls, were performing on the night Scatter saw Annie. Drew Hylton performs a tough cookie act as Pepper and Emily-May Stephenson constantly kicks out the dancing moves. There are three teams of orphan girls, three Annie’s but only one Miss Hannigan, and one extremely obedient dog. Much loved Craig Revel Horwood, better known for his place on the judging panel for Strictly Come Dancing, doesn’t disappoint. Oozing sass and spite, this Miss Hannigan keeps the audience entertained with her bad behaviour. Alex Bourne plays a marvellous mix of stern business man and gentle father.
Annie favourites such as Hard Knock Life and Tomorrow are delivered with endless energy and a fun set of choreography from Nick Winston.
Colin Richmond has created a colourful, playful set to bring this traditional production a grand dose of vibrancy. Richmond’s burst of puzzle pieces across the proscenium arch is a similar design to Rob Howell’s design for Matilda, The Musical.
Book today for fun with Tomorrow! Annie the musical is enjoyable for those who know it well and those just discovering it.