Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney is earning rave reviews for her portrayal of Miss Hannigan in the latest UK tour of the beloved musical Annie. The production recently stopped at the Theatre Royal in Newcastle, where Sweeney's performance was hailed as a comedy masterclass.
A Timeless Classic
Annie first premiered on Broadway nearly 50 years ago, quickly becoming an era-defining musical of the late 1970s. It won multiple Tony Awards and created a fan frenzy comparable to today's hits like Wicked and Hamilton. The story of the redheaded orphan has never been off the stage since, and the latest touring production drew excited family audiences in Newcastle.
Set in December 1933 during the Great Depression, the plot follows Annie, abandoned as a baby on an orphanage's steps with a note and half a silver locket, as she searches for her parents. She is randomly chosen to spend Christmas with billionaire Oliver Warbucks, who plans to adopt her, much to the dismay of orphanage manager Miss Hannigan.
Sweeney's Standout Performance
Sweeney, who recently left her role as Cassie Plummer on Coronation Street, took over the part of Miss Hannigan from Strictly Come Dancing star La Voix. Her rendition of the song "Little Girls," where her character drunkenly laments her life, was described as a masterclass in comedy. Sweeney has previously starred in musicals like 9 to 5, Chicago, and Tell Me On A Sunday.
The role has been played in recent years by Craig Revel Horwood, the late Paul O'Grady, and Jodie Prenger. Sweeney's exit scenes from the ITV soap aired just days before the Newcastle performances.
Production Notes
The production, originally directed by Nikolai Foster and first staged a decade ago, features a garish set of jigsaw pieces and flashing lights, drawing some inspiration from Matilda The Musical. While this might jar for those used to more traditional productions, the orchestration was excellent, with every note delivered with precision.
June Young gave a confident performance as Annie, not afraid to explore the character's dramatic elements. Alex Bourne, who has played Oliver Warbucks numerous times, delivered slick renditions of songs like "Something Was Missing" and "NYC."
The audience's enthusiastic reaction confirmed that Annie remains a beloved classic. The tour continues across the UK until March 2027.
