Annie – Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre Company
Lichfield Garrick
Monday 24th March 2025
By : Nigel Gambles
Photography by : Studio 55 Photography
I think that, at some point, everyone has come across and been introduced to the story of Little Orphan Annie. Three movies across the years, and songs that have become part of our lives from our childhoods to now. It’s a story that somehow we keep coming back too, so it is no surprise that the most recent West End production has headed out on the road, spreading its charm and joy up and down the country.
The cast are brilliant, with no weak link, you can not fault them. Kerrie Penrice plays Miss Hannigan and she suits the role to a tee. An imposing figure over the small children, carrying off the characteristic drunken stagger and the slight insanity every moment when the orphanage girls run riot. Paul Lumsden plays the role of Warbucks. He is easily able to show the change of character from emotionless business man, in love with only money, to the sensitive man who wants to love Annie.
Rachel J Clarke comes onto the stage with a wonderful grace and beauty as Grace Farrell, with gorgeous vocals and a beautiful ease to everything she did on stage. I have to also highlight Ethan Bowley who takes on the role of Rooster, his quick switch from man of comedy to sinister villain sends a chill down your spine.
You can’t go and see a show like Annie and not marvel over the talents of the show’s young stars. It always amazes me how they can remember everything and make it look so easy. it was the adorable Eliza Bullock that took on the role of Annie and she was simply brilliant. A very mature performer with lovely vocals and some amazing facial expressions, she could sum up a lot in just one look. Lula McLoughin was also a highlight as the littlest orphanage girl Molly, from the beginning to the end she had the audience hanging on her every word. The entirety of team (Isabella Hamilton, Ellie Baker, Grace Wilson, Sophia Reeve Dotty Shipton and the rest of the orphans) are amazing little performers and sure to all go far.
This slick production effortlessly danced from scene to scene, taking us from the orphanage to the grand surroundings of Warbuck’s mansion, then whizzing us away to Washington then back again. It delights in story telling, and never misses a beat. The Choreography by Maggie Jackson is incredible, from the energy of ‘Hard Knock Life’ and ‘Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile’ to the classic feel of ‘NYC’ and the beautiful waltz in the second act. ‘Hooverville’ was also a highlight choreographically, slick and clever and effortlessly performed by a faultless ensemble.
Annie, in my opinion, is timeless. It’s a story of dreams and want, woven in with a story of good versus bad. From the darkness of the orphanage and Annie’s backstory to the light of the mansion and of Annie’s new future, it takes us back to watching the film as children. This is a production that can enchant even the youngest of children and thoroughly entertain the adults as well, one for all the family.
Finally no show can happen without the director and behind the scenes crew. Paula Lumsden directs and absolute winner here with a company who are enjoying every minute, which shows in their performance. Musical Director Sheila Jackson and choreographer Maggie Jackson just added the razzmatazz to the show.
