The hit Broadway & West End Musical ‘Annie’ has arrived at the Edinburgh Playhouse as part of it’s new UK Tour. The story follows a confident New Yorker orphan, Annie, as she longs to find her parents. When she is invited to spend Christmas with billionaire Oliver Warbucks, could she finally have found a way to leave the orphanage and the evil Miss Hannigan? Featuring iconic hits such as ‘Hard Knock Life’, ‘Tomorrow’ and ‘Easy Street’, this is a show not to be missed, playing Edinburgh until Saturday 25th March.
Paul O’Grady is hilarious as Miss Hannigan. Seeing Paul in a musical has been something I’ve wanted to tick off my theatre bucket list for quite some time and it’s safe to say he didn’t disappoint. Paul’s take on Miss Hannigan is undoubtedly Carol Burnett inspired, stern yet nuanced with a hysterical personality which supplies endless laughs. Although Miss Hannigan is the villain of this production, you can’t help but love Paul’s spin on this iconic character. Albeit Paul’s scouse accent sometimes breaks through the harsh New York accent he supplies Hannigan, and his dancing skill isn’t what it used to be. But Paul gives ounces of energy, comedic genius and so much heart to the cruel Miss Hannigan, giving the audience a fabulous time at the theatre. Paul’s performance in this musical alone makes it one of the biggest productions at the Playhouse this year, you don’t want to miss this.
Harlie Barthram is incredible as Annie, she captures the cheekiness, wisdom and confidence perfectly while being able to make the role her own. Harlie is barely off stage for a second yet her energy never drops, she is constantly working hard, and even at points guiding Sandy (played by the scene stealing Darcy, Boris & Lily in the tour). This young performer is an absolute star, who captivates audiences of all ages.
David Burrows is brilliant as Daddy Warbucks (covering for Alex Bourne), he brings sophistication, friendliness and patience to the billionaire. With this portrayal you lose the short-tempered isolation and instead a man who learns to love a young girl who takes him away from the hustle and bustle of his work. This is a strong performance from David.
Paul French is devilishly devious in his unhinged portrayal of Rooster, accompanied by Billie-Kay as the ditzy Lily, the couple make for a brilliant pair of villains. Their pairing with Paul O’Grady makes for theatrical magic, especially during ‘Easy Street’.
Amelia Adams is delightful as Grace Farrell, her dancing and vocal skill lift this character to make her a loving maternal figure for Annie, a stark contrast from Paul’s Miss Hannigan. Lukin Simmonds provides two contrasting roles as Jimmy Johnson and Franklin Roosevelt (covering for David Burrows). As Jimmy Lukin’s performance of ‘You’re Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile’ is a lovely rendition and then as Roosevelt he delivers a stunning performance of ‘Tomorrow (Reprise)’ with the help of the amazing sounding ensemble.
Speaking of ensemble, this production features a band of talented performers who work tiredlessly to create 1930s New York, bringing versatility to show the riches and rags the city had to offer at this time after the crash. The ensemble are as follows; Tommy Wade-Smith (Butler, Fred McCracken and Dance Captain), Alistair Beattie (NBC Producer, Apple Seller, Butler and Hull), Martin McCarthy (Drake), Rosalind James (Sophie, Mrs Pugh and Frances Perkins), Phoebe Roberts (Cecille, Connie Boylan and Assistant Dance Captain), Dawn Williams (Annette, Star to Be, Bonnie Boylan and Morganthau), Emily Barnett-Salter (Mrs Greer and Ronnie Boylan), Ellie May-Wilson (Swing), Belle Kizzy Green (Swing), Matthew Sweet (Swing) and Sergi Ibanez (Swing).
Who can forget the children’s ensemble of this production who are utterly fabulous! Their performance of ‘Hard Knock Life’ is a showstopping moment to say the least, and the unbelievable energy the kids bring to the show is much to be admired. The children’s cast are as follows; Suki Hiller, Chloe Angiama, Karin Narumi, Chloe Raphael, Ellicia Simondwood, Chanai Owusu-Ansah, Kayla Kuranga, Bella Rose Hambi Roche, Ava Masters, Marlie Love, Caitlin Cole, Kyla Semper, Isobel Stanish, Jessica Rodgers, Georgie Fisher, Lola Green, Gracie Hodson-Prior and Jasmine O’Riordan.
Nikolai Foster is easily the best musical theatre director within the UK theatre industry at this point, with the illustrious string of hit musicals he has under his belt. Utilizing Thomas Meehan’s iconic book with Charles Strouse’s beautiful Music and Martin Charnin’s infamous Lyrics, Nikolai updates the musical for a 21st century audience. With help from Nick Winston with his choreography that helps lift each musical number, bringing in a stylish 1930s vibe to every step. Visually, Colin Richmond designs the colourful and cartoonish set, plus stunning costume for this production, and Ben Cracknell supplies a dazzling lighting design. While George Dyer’s revised orchestrations makes this musical sound the best it ever has.
‘Annie’ is a musical for the full family, packed with comedy, iconic hits and a delightful cast. This is one show not to miss. Get your tickets now!
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