Review – Annie – Empire Theatre, Liverpool and UK Tour

In 1930’s New York City, Annie dreams of finding her parents after being abandoned on the steps of an orphanage as a baby. Living with her fellow orphans under the cruel rule of Miss Hannigan, Annie’s life changes when she is selected to spend Christmas with billionaire Oliver Warbucks. With the help of her new friends, Annie brings a little hope, happiness and optimism into Warbucks’ world, while continuing to believe that one day her parents will return for her. Despite being set almost a century ago, the themes of hope, family and finding light during difficult times remain as relevant as ever today.

The central role of Annie, (a role shared by Sophia Saravanan, June Young, Victoria Alsina and Bibi Blossom Stockley-Webster) with the character’s journey and potential, is undeniably a demanding role for any young performer; yet, I find the highlight of the show to be the children ensemble overall. The character relationships, choreography and vocals from the orphan girls together are outstanding, particularly captivating audiences in numbers ‘It’s the Hard Knock Life’ and ‘You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile’. For me, I particularly want to mention Myla Park, who plays the role of Kate at this performance. Her energy and enthusiasm, make her stand out amongst her cast-mates. Her passion is so sincerely evident in this show, and is able to seamlessly blend amongst the cast, while catching the attention of the audience through her wildly impressive characterisation and commitment.

As well as the hilarious Claire Sweeney as Miss Hannigan, and especially talented Alex Bourne as Oliver Warbucks leading the musical, the performer that stands out a mile or me is Christian Cooper, who plays the role of Rooster. His comedic timing, swaggering energy, shear confidence and inspiring dance technique would make the late Tim Curry proud. Cooper knows exactly how to play a villain, without losing the comedy, and takes on the huge responsibility of making ‘Easy Street’, and particularly it’s reprises, genuine standout moments of the show.

I find the jigsaw set design a puzzle in itself. Though jigsaw puzzle pieces connote to children, they have no other relevance to the story which makes me question why it is chosen for the overarching set design, looming over the stage, almost as the alphabet blocks do in Matilda. When there is nothing but a ‘W’ doorframe onstage, it’s truly down to the costume and performers to get the audience to figure out this is supposed to be a huge mansion. However, the orphan’s bedroom and Hannigan’s office work well amongst the otherwise minimalistic set, with doorways at the back, which often compliment numbers perfectly.

As a show often aimed at families and children, regular theatre-goers be warned that theatre etiquette at this performance was completely appalling. I cannot speak on behalf of every audience on this tour, but I found myself facing almost everything a theatre fan dreads, from constant talking (from both children and adults alike) and rustling of packets, to audience members on their phones, or getting up and down throughout the performance. Simply a danger one may have to face, having booked tickets.

Ultimately, if you’re never fully dressed without a smile, the UK tour of Annie is definitely one to see! With its unforgettable score and loveable characters, Annie continues to prove that it has remained a favourite amongst theatre fans for generations. It has a nostalgic charm with a simple message: even when things seem hopeless, there is always the possibility of tomorrow. You’re only a day away!

**** Four Stars