Few musicals have captured hearts across generations quite like Annie. Since bounding onto Broadway in 1977, the beloved tale of Little Orphan Annie has become a global phenomenon, winning seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, while inspiring multiple film adaptations that have introduced Annie's optimism and unforgettable songs to audiences around the world. From Tomorrow to It's the Hard Knock Life, its score remains one of the most recognisable in musical theatre history. The show's enduring popularity has seen countless West End runs and UK tours, with the current smash-hit UK and Ireland tour continuing to delight audiences nationwide. For many performers, Annie serves as a first introduction to the magic of musical theatre, both onstage and in the audience, launching careers and sparking lifelong passions for theatre. Decades after its debut, the world still holds a special place in its heart for brave, hopeful Annie, whose story of resilience, kindness and the power of chosen family continues to resonate as strongly as ever.
Directed by Nikolai Foster, the current UK and Ireland tour has now arrived at the New Wimbledon Theatre, giving London audiences the chance to fall in love with Annie all over again. On press night, the role of Annie was played by Victoria Alsina (The King & I, A Christmas Carol, Les Misérables) who delivered a truly outstanding performance. With a voice that was both controlled and powerful, she soared through iconic numbers such as Tomorrow, while also showing remarkable sensitivity and warmth in quieter moments like Maybe. A confident and captivating young performer, she is undoubtedly a star in the making. Joining her were the Chrysler Team of young performers: Marnie Raw Warren-Baker (Matilda, The Lion King) as Duffy, Thandie Lalji (Stage Stars) as July, Dolly Ismail making her professional debut as Kate, Jemma Lown (Channel 4's Beth) as Molly, Amber Koduah-Hutchison (Matilda, The Lion King) as Pepper and Maddy Collins (Les Misérables, Disney's Frozen The Musical, Matilda) as Tessie. Together, the young cast brought boundless energy, charm and professionalism to the stage, delivering impressive vocals, slick choreography and beautifully natural performances throughout.
Leading the adult cast was the fabulous La Voix (Strictly Come Dancing, RuPaul's Drag Race UK, ITV's Queens For The Night) as the gloriously wicked Miss Hannigan. Bringing undeniable star quality and larger-than-life charisma to the role, La Voix commanded the stage from the moment she first appeared, bottle of gin in hand. Her performance was packed with energy and her rendition of Little perfectly captured the character's exasperation and chaotic humour. Taking on the role of Daddy Warbucks was Alex Bourne (Chicago, Hairspray, Eugenius!), whose effortlessly charming performance brought warmth and humanity to the character, making him instantly likeable. His commanding vocals perfectly suited the score, while his chemistry with Alsina's Annie felt natural and genuine from their very first scene together. The pair shared an infectious sense of joy on stage, making their relationship completely believable. Bourne delivered a particularly touching performance of Something Was Missing, while his duet with Alsina on I Don't Need Anything But You, left the audience smiling throughout. Tanisha-Mae Brown (Singin' in the Rain, Brigadoon, Guys and Dolls) delivered a wonderfully warm and elegant Grace Farrell, with her beautiful, soaring soprano wowing throughout. Christian Cooper (The Sound of Music, The Little Mermaid, Spring Awakening) was wonderful as the scheming Rooster, bringing plenty of charisma to the role. His performance of the iconic Easy Street alongside La Voix's Hannigan and Amber Kennedy's Lily became one of the show's many highlights.
This production works beautifully in breathing fresh life into a well-loved musical classic. Colin Richmond's stunning set design evokes the towering streets and smoky atmosphere of 1930s New York. The action takes place on a static set, which cleverly transforms through pieces that are flown and trucked in to create a variety of locations with seamless fluidity. Richmond's richly detailed design transports the audience straight into Depression-era New York, capturing both the hardship of the time and the irresistible charm, whimsy and sparkle that sit at the heart of Annie. George Dyer's arrangements of the much-loved score feel fresh and revitalised while still remaining faithful to the original audiences know and love. Under the baton of Nick Tudor, the tight eight-piece band keeps the action moving with energy and precision, bringing a wonderful sense of momentum to every scene.
Bursting with heart, humour and outstanding performances, this latest production of Annie proves exactly why the musical has remained beloved for generations. Packed with iconic songs, dazzling choreography and an incredible cast led by a star-making turn from its young leading lady, the production leaves audiences grinning from ear to ear long after the final curtain falls. Annie is playing at the New Wimbledon Theatre until the end of this week before continuing its UK and Ireland tour, and audiences would be hard pressed to find a more joyful and uplifting night at the theatre.
It runs until 30 May.
Review: Stuart James Photo: Paul Coltas