Annie
Nearly 50 years after it first hit the stage, and despite frequent school and community productions, this musical about a red-headed orphan can still fill a large venue like the Regal, and this production from HAMA Productions was received with great enthusiasm. A sumptuous production with high production values.
Eleven-year-old Aurelia Turley brings high energy and indefatigable spirit to the title role, leading a troupe of terrifically talented orphans that are cuter than kittens. Aurelia shares her role with Layla May Walker, and depending on the performance you attend, you may see a different cast of orphans. Among the excellently performing youngsters, Violette Russo consistently steals scenes as little Molly, Indi Phimster is a standout Duffy and Allegra Ong lovely as Kate.
Manuao TeAotonga, perhaps a surprising choice as Daddy Warbucks, makes the role his own, in a moving performance, with the moment this steadfastly independent man asks for help from President Roosevelt (a strong Steve Simmons) particularly poignant. His secretary Grace Farrell is beautifully played by Grace Johnson in an intelligent, beautifully acted portrayal.
Taneal Van Zyl relishes the role of Miss Hannigan - a worthy villain, alongside Tate Bennett’s scheming con-man Roster and Sophie Sutton’s wide-eyed Lily St Regis.
Lovely warmth from the ensemble of servants led by Ethan Churchill’s butler Drake, Genevieve Newman’s Mrs Pugh, and Sarah Boniface’s Mrs Greer.
Rp van der Westhuizen is the most fabulously self-obsessed Bert Healy I have ever seen (from a very humble actor), while Christie McGarrity owns the Star-To-Be cameo in a memorable moment. Sapphire (Blackboy Diamonds Ain’t Blue) a last-minute replacement for dog Sandy, brings previous experience and a great pedigree to the role.
This production has heavy ensemble tracks, with the cast switching characters with aplomb. Singing, under the guidance of Vocal Director Taui Pinker, is very strong, with lovely harmonies, and the ensemble execute Cameron Etherington’s dynamic choreography with considerable precision.
Hamish McSporran’s modular set is moved efficiently by the ensemble and is effectively lit from a design by Richard Timms. A visually exciting production, costumes from Marina Del Basso, while occasionally anachronistic, are beautiful and she has used colour superbly.
A great choice for a family treat, a first musical and even those who think that they are over Annie. A lovely dose of sunshine.
Kimberley Shaw
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