Annie

Koorliny Arts Centre's Annie is a production with a lovely heart and a positive vibe.

Charming Christie McGarrity looks perfect in the title role and brings a beautiful voice and genuine smile. She walks well with four-legged co-star Dijaan Rhodes (Sandy) and is a treat to watch.

Chris Gerrish is a strong but warm Daddy Warbucks, with a voice to match and partners well with Kimberley Harris who is perhaps the perfect Grace, efficient and precise in an excellent performance.

Val Henry balances the humour and villainy of Miss Hannigan nicely, while Joshua Munroe is compellingly and disturbingly likeable as the despicable Rooster. Georgia McGivern creates a gorgeously flashy and trashy Lily St Regis.

The orphans are delightful; a band of 6 core orphans, supported by a larger orphan ensemble, and both are double cast. Many of the principal orphans have professional credits - and the remainder match them in talent, while the (mostly) less experienced ensemble children, bring enthusiasm and energy. Particularly memorable was Saoirse Gerrish as Molly (she alternates with Georgia Fleay) - a natural comedienne who delivered an endearing performance.

Koorliny Arts Centre manager Ryan Taafe moonlights in a cameo as Bert Healey, and his work with Wacky (Blake Jenkins - another juvenile pro) is a show highlight.

The adult ensemble includes an abundance of "new to community theatre" faces and they are vocally very impressive. A standout is Vikki Walker as A Star To Be.

Choreographer Sue Cunnell makes her debut with this show and the dancing was well taught and nicely executed. I particularly liked Warbuck's deliberately awkward waltz with Annie and smoother dance with the lovely Grace. Rodger Starbuck's surprising dance breakout in the cabinet scene was another high spot. Much of the choreography was overly lyric driven and it would be nice to see a freer less literal approach.

Costuming had elements that were excellent - notably Grace's wardrobe, which was exquisitely stylish and everything worn by Annie was perfect. Some costumes though were out of era or under accessorised. Props had a similar hit and miss rate. Lighting was excellent, the Warbucks mansion set very impressive and sound balance generally very good.

Musically Annie is strong. Vocal direction is tight and the five piece band plays well under conductor Justin Friend.

Annie is always a feel good show and this production captures this joy well with a warm and sweet presentation.

Kimberley Shaw