Annie

Annie tells the story of an 11-year-old girl living in a run-down orphanage in 1933, whose optimism allows her to believe she will one day see her parents again and that each tomorrow will be a better day. Annie is eventually chosen to spend Christmas week with billionaire Oliver Warbucks (played by Nathaniel Currie) and she quickly melts the hearts of the stern businessman and his staff. The story then takes a deceitful turn when con artists devise a plan to separate Annie and Warbucks forever.

As Oliver Warbucks, Nathaniel Currie’s gruff exterior is quickly melted away and he makes the billionaire even lovable. He commands the stage and exudes power when needed, but also shows a vulnerability that’s important for the character, helped of course by the beautiful Grace Farrell, played with dignity and heart by Morgan Garrity.Young actress Emily Marshall-Simmons impresses as the 11-year-old title orphan, and she nicely balances scrappiness, vulnerability, wide-eyed excitement and flat-out cuteness. Plus, there's nothing little about her voice, which soars on the show's hopeful signature ballad "Tomorrow".

Dog lovers be warned, the golden retriever who plays Sandy in this production will melt your heart. 14 year old Sebastian is as beautiful in nature and coat as he is in his role, answering to ‘Sandy’ the entire show! Also, a special mention to little Chihuahua, Pepper, who is no stranger to the spotlight, having played Bruiser Woods in the Gold Coast production of Legally Blonde.

Director Lisa Ng’s most impressive impression on this performance is the way she shaped the performances of the young ‘Orphans’ – whose songs, dances and acting were all polished and highly entertaining. Chloe Weise as Kate, Harmony Scott as Sylvie, Lucinda Murray as July, Mia Wooldridge as Pepper, Olivia Baker as Duffy, Sienna Barney as Tessie and the charismatic pocket rocket, Tia Drew as Molly – these girls bring the show to life with their performance of ‘Hard Knock Life’. It is a goose bump moment within the first 15 minutes of the show.

The role of Miss Hannigan, the mean-spirited matron of the orphanage, was skillfully portrayed by Julia Lefik. Through facial expressions and a larger than life personality, Ms. Lefik’s performance was most remarkable, along with her “nasty” partners in crime Rooster Hannigan and Lily St. Regis (played wonderfully by Alexander Thanasoulis and Kate Doohan). Their performance of “Easy Street” quickly became a show-stopper.

I was also impressed with Joel Mikkelsen’s portrayal of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt – his performance was spot on. From the vocal delivery to facial expressions and mannerisms, his portrayal of the New Deal President was authentic, and added quite a bit of realism to the history of the story.

While some of the set changes took longer than average, once they were revealed – they were perfect to the scene and added depth to the storyline. A notable mention to the constant back-drop of New York City, illuminated by glow in the dark paint (possibly?) to represent the lights of the city. It was incredibly creative and an added touch that brought the production up a notch. The band, led by Musical Director Nick Ng, was also phenomenal. Who knew such a rich and professional sound could resonate so loudly through the walls of a tin shed – it was a huge highlight for this show.

Overall, this show is one for the young and young at heart. Phoenix Ensemble have really set the bar high, proving that sometimes working with kids and animals can be the perfect mix after all.

Mel Bobbermien