Annie has found her home in Cardiff for the next two weeks. The hit West End production has returned to the Wales Millennium Centre with Coronation Street and Brookside star Claire Sweeney starring as Miss Hannigan.
Whether you've watched the original 1982 film or one of the more recent adaptations, the stage show stays faithful to the much-loved original. 11-year-old Annie, played by Sophia Saravanan, lives a difficult life in Miss Hannigan’s orphanage, dreaming that one day her parents will return for her. However, everything changes when she’s selected to spend Christmas with billionaire Oliver Warbucks, played by Alex Bourne. What begins as little more than a publicity stunt develops into something much deeper as Annie brings hope and warmth into Warbucks' world.
Talented Young Cast Shines
Determined to make Annie happy, he promises to help find her parents, setting in motion the emotional journey that lies at the heart of the show. Talented Sophia makes a wonderful first impression as Annie, displaying remarkable confidence and beautiful vocals from the moment she steps on stage. The role of Annie is shared by several performers and appearances may vary.
The opening number, Maybe, is a lovely introduction, but it's only moments later when It’s the Hard Knock Life bursts into life that Annie truly arrives. The energy from the young cast is infectious and the audience immediately responds. Despite the constant squabbling and teasing between the orphans, there’s a genuine sense that they’re united by their shared experiences under the cruel rule of Miss Hannigan.
Claire Sweeney's Standout Performance
Soap legend Claire steps into the iconic role and absolutely makes it her own. From her first appearance, staggering around clutching her beloved bottle of gin, she's thoroughly unlikeable in exactly the way audiences want her to be. Christian Cooper is a standout as Rooster, Hannigan's scheming brother. With his quick wit, smarmy charm and complete lack of morals, he’s a wonderfully entertaining villain. Alongside Amber Kennedy's delightfully dim Lily St. Regis, the trio create one of the show's funniest moments during musical number Easy Street.
Scene-Stealing Canine Co-Star
Fans will know Annie would be complete without Sandy. Played by Dizzy, the lovable pooch steals every scene. The relationship between Annie and Sandy feels completely genuine and every appearance from the four-legged star is met with smiles across the auditorium. The supporting company is exceptional throughout. Strong vocals, slick choreography and endless enthusiasm ensure every ensemble number feels full of life.
Emotional Core and Timeless Message
Without revealing too much, Annie eventually learns the heartbreaking truth about her parents. It's a deeply emotional scene that finally gives her the closure she’s spent her entire life searching for. While it may not be the ending she always imagined, it allows her to finally embrace the family she has found.
Whether you’re seeing Annie for the very first time or returning for another visit, this production delivers everything audiences could hope for. The passion and commitment shown by the entire company, particularly the young cast, is remarkable. Their performances are filled with energy, emotion and optimism, perfectly capturing the timeless message at the heart of this much-loved musical.
Annie runs at the Wales Millennium Centre until July 18.
