On my travels throughout Region 5, and elsewhere when standing in for otherwise engaged reps, one often sees individual excellence, great choreography etc. etc. Rarely do all the elements of a production conspire together to produce a brilliant show - this was one such.
Attention to detail was much in evidence, accents were maintained throughout, lighting was good, the sets looked splendid and were changed speedily and even the dog looked completely at home on the stage.
The title role was taken by Fiona Larkin whose voice and acting ability belied her tender years and was matched by an impish Molly played by Danielle Hayes. The remaining legion of wonderfully scruffy orphanage kids worked well as a unit and were a delight to watch, particularly in the well choreographed 'Hard knock life' number.
The booze sodden harridan, Miss Hannigan, is a gem of a role and every nuance of the character was brought to life by Joyce Walters. Her shiftless relation Rooster and his gangster's moll styled Lily St Regis were equally well played by David and Vicki Wilson.
Mike Taylor gave an imposing performance, sang very well, showing a genuine warmth to the unfortunate Annie as the high powered business tycoon Oliver Warbucks whilst Lindsay Farnworth was ideally cast as Grace Farrell.
The studio scene was highly amusing giving Don Howcroft the chance to contribute as Bert Healy whilst Irene Bowers, Jane Bickerstaffe and Kathy Turton were the delightfully over the top Boylan sisters. There was also a strength in depth as those who took the minor roles all made telling contributions.
The orchestra under the direction of Marjorie Hough played extremely well adding to the overall effect, general chorus work was much improved and Producer/Choreographer Nora Howcroft can be well pleased with this bright, vibrant show and the quality achieved by all concerned. This was a seamless production with hardly a chink in the armour of excellence.
