Annie - Norwich Theatre Playhouse (30.05.2025)

Guest Review by Hannah Smith

The house was packed and the audience were buzzing for Annie, a collaborative production between Threshold Theatre Company and Echo Youth Theatre. The fact that this show has been sold out for some time is only more proof that community theatre is alive, well, and definitely kicking in Norfolk.

The orphans did a great job in setting the tone with Hard Knock Life, with Kitty Denny (Annie) leading the pack with slick, impressive dance moves, in a performance packed full of charm and charisma.

Kitty did brilliantly with her characterisation of Annie, from streetwise survivor, to sunshine-y optimist as well as skillfully conveying her vulnerability. She also showcased some dog-handling ability, keeping a very cute but eager to escape Sandy under control during Tomorrow - not an easy feat!

Annie shared a lovely warmth between Warbucks (Ben Woodward) and Grace (Kate Pantry) who both gave strong performances. Woodward, in particular, did a sterling job vocally, and the scenes between the trio in the Warbucks mansion were both believable and tender.

Holly Graham as Miss Hannigan was terrific, leaning into the ‘frazzled mum’ aspect of Hannigan. This made for a performance that didn’t rely on the drunken villain trope, but instead cleverly blended sarcasm, comedy and at times, vulnerability, to create a real multi-layered character. Her big song, Little Girls combined intense red lighting, slow-mo choreography and Graham’s rich outstanding vocals, to make it the most interesting number of the show.

Easy Street was another highlight, with sly and dastardly Rooster (Zac Sowter) and the delightfully airheaded Lily (Jasmine Harvey) combining faultless harmonies, comedy, and raucous dancing, in what is arguably the trickiest of all the musical numbers in this show.

The supporting cast had some lovely moments, particularly Roosevelt (Charlie Collins) in the cabinet scene. Drake (Charles Tweed) gave the audience some real belly laughs with his transition from stiff British butler to flamboyant fellow (although there were some missed opportunities for further laughs - he definitely left the audience wanting more).

Special mention must go to Ezzie Hart, for stealing every scene she was in, with her adorable portrayal of the littlest orphan, Molly.

There did seem to be some small issues with sound, despite the majority of the performers being mic-ed, and a couple of moments got lost somewhat because of this.

The set was minimal, mostly relying on projections allowing for swift transitions. The clever use of staircases and sweeping scarlet curtains transformed the stage to the grandeur of the Warbucks Mansion.

The creative team have done a wonderful job of producing a piece that remains true to the heart of the show; full of tender moments and comedy but with the addition of some really excellent choreography, making it feel fresh for a younger audience.

Annie continues at Norwich Playhouse until 1st June.