The sun will definitely shine this week with York Stage Musicals’ new production of Annie, giving a whole new generation the chance to experience this classic musical about never giving up hope.
Annie is an elating piece of family theatre – one of the best family musicals ever penned.
At the Grand Opera House from Tuesday, May 20 to Saturday, May 24, the timeless tale of little orphan Annie won seven Tony Awards in 1977, including Best Musical, Book and Score.
It ran for 2,377 performances, and has subsequently been produced all over the world.
With music by Charles Strouse and book by Thomas Meehan, the show has one of Broadway’s most memorable scores, including It’s The Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street, Together At Last, Never Fully Dressed and the ever optimistic Tomorrow.
You can bet your bottom dollar that Annie will bring a smile to your face.
Red headed orphan Annie is played by Coraleigh Hobson and Katy Metheringham, joined by two teams of fantastic orphans from all over Yorkshire!
The adult principal cast sees York Stage Musicals artistic director Nik Briggs take on the role of billionaire Daddy Warbucks, Steph Bolsher gets the most beautiful frocks as Grace, whilst YSM welcomes York Light Opera favourite Julie-ann Smith who encores her blistering performance as dastardly Miss Hannigan.
Joe Wawrzyniak puts the cock-a-doodle-doo into evil con-man Rooster with squeaky Verity Carr as his side-kick Lily.
Dancing servants, 1930s radio favourites The Boylan Family (no longer just sisters, as Ronnie, Connie ans Bonnie have been joined by brothers Johnnie, Donnie and Lonnie!) and Jeeves-ian butler Drake played by Martin Rowley all add to the fun.
YSM is delighted to welcome Andy Stone who gently rises up the ranks playing three roles: Lieutenant Ward, Bert Healey and finally President Roosevelt himself!
The creative team includes musical director Adam Tomlinson and choreographer Lesley Hill.
Great music, great fun – a truly wonderful family show. Annie shines like the top of the Chrysler Building!
- Robert Readman is the director of Annie
- Annie is at the Grand Opera House from Tuesday, May 20 to Saturday, May 24, evenings at 7pm (except Friday at 8pm) with matinee performances on Friday at 5pm and Saturday at both noon and 3pm – more details here
- Read more theatre stories here