OBSERVER: Annie
Annie has arrived at the Princess Theatre. Still going strong since its world premiere in August 1976 in Connecticut.
Based on the popular Harold Gray’s comic strip Little Orphan Annie and Thomas Meehan’s book, it gave rise to the musical with music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Martin Charnin, and has played worldwide since its premiere.
A well-travelled story, Annie being left by her parents at the NYC Municipal Orphanage, under the care of Miss Hannigan in oppressive conditions, is bundled out of the orphanage by the laundry man and while on the streets of Manhattan saves a mutt she calls Sandy from the dog catchers.
However, soon Annie is returned to the orphanage by a policeman but fate takes a turn for the better as billionaire Oliver Warbucks’ private secretary arrives to invite an orphan to Christmas at Warbuck’s mansion.
The staging is superb, with a stellar cast, many with dual roles including being understudies, and on show is a wealth of young talent.
Particularly with the orphan girls who all worked with great enthusiasm, whether vocal or dance to meticulous choreography.
A key role of Oliver (Daddy) Warbucks, played by legendary Anthony Warlow making this role his own now for over two decades, certainly did not disappoint.
Everything Miss Hannigan, played by Debora Krizak, did was engaging and meritorious. Newcomer to musical theatre, (former Yellow Wiggle) Greg Price played President Franklin D. Roosevelt with great conviction and presence, while Amanda Lea Lavergne playing Grace Farrell, Warbucks’ private secretary, with kindness very skillfully nurtured Annie as to being part of the Warbuck “family”.
While giving full credit to the very talented ensemble, mention should be made of Mackenzie Dunn as Lily and Keanu Gonzalez as Rooster, claiming to be Annie’s parents, who were well in character throughout their diverse performances.
Lastly, the role of Annie played by Isabella Hayden on opening night showed her skill and adaptability in the various situations that she faced, while in the wings for other performances of Annie, await Lilleth McIntosh and Dakota Chanel.
A lively, heartwarming and all-the-family production, not to be missed while it is in Melbourne.
Venue: Princess Theatre, 163 Spring St.
Bookings: Ticketek
Review by Graeme McCoubrie

