Few musicals capture the energy of live theatre quite like Annie. Directed by Nikolai Foster, this vibrant revival set the stage of the Wales Millenium Centre alight, proving exactly why Annie has remained an iconic family favourite for almost five decades. Bursting with colour, movement and infectious optimism, the production has an irresistible energy that rarely stops.
Set in Depression-era New York, Annie follows the spirited young orphan who refuses to let her difficult circumstances diminish her optimism. Living under the cruel rule of the embittered Miss Hannigan (Claire Sweeney), Annie’s (Sophia Saravanan) fortunes change when she’s invited to spend Christmas with billionaire Oliver Warbucks (Alex Bourne). As Warbucks launches a nationwide search for Annie’s parents, Miss Hannigan devises her own scheme to cash in on the reward, setting the stage for a heartwarming story about hope, resilience and finding family in unexpected places.
Star of Brookside, Claire Sweeney, is an undeniable comic highlight as Miss Hannigan, delivering a performance that leans into the roles deliciously over the top villainy. With exaggerated physical comedy, Sweeneys’ Hannigan is gloriously camp. A notable highlight being Easy Street, allowing her to divulge into Hannigan’s greed with infectious theatrical flair.
However, the productions greatest strength lied in its ensemble, whose relentless enthusiasm gives the musical its beating heart. Every dance sequence showcased precision and personality, with twists of classic musical theatre pizazz and nods to the 1930s era, creating a sense of optimistic celebration. The vibrant palette of costumes, warm scenic design and energetic choreography combine to make a visual spectacle that is constantly in motion.
The young cast are also impressive, bringing confidence and humour to the production, without feeling overly polished, allowing the shows heartfelt message to shine through. Their performances feel wonderfully natural rather than overly polished, capturing the playful mischief of the orphanage scenes.
With a musical first performed almost 50 years ago, Anniecould easily risk feeling dated or fall behind more contemporary productions. Instead, this revival proves exactly why it has stood the test of time. By embracing timeless optimism, infectious score and unapologetically camp theatricality, the production feels every bit as entertaining as it did years ago. While trending theatre directors such as Jamie Lloyd seek modernisation, the touring production of Annie show that musicals can be bought to life with passion and this revival does that.
