By Amanda VanNostrand.
The Tony Award-winning musical Annie is playing at Walnut Street Theatre between now and January 7th. Standards are high, as many of us have experienced the movie(s) but this show more than lives up to the hype created by Annie. Lovers of all things cute and musical should not miss this show.
Annie is the story of a young orphan girl searching and yearning for her family. Beginning at an orphanage in 1930s New York, the audience is introduced to Annie (Tahlia Ellie) and her (fellow orphan) friends. After an attempt to escape, Annie returns in a timely manner, being present when Grace Farrell (Rebecca Robbins) approaches Miss Hannigan (Mary Martello) about bringing an orphan home for her employer, Oliver Warbucks (Paul Schoeffler). Warbucks is a billionaire and the audience watches as Annie adjusts and becomes accustomed to her new life with a father figure who appreciates her charm (and she, his). The story unfolds, revealing the answer to Annie’s ever-present question: will I ever have a family of my own?
This production of Annie is exquisite. Everything about it screams perfection: cast, costumes, set design, lighting, etc.
Children with steady voices can be hard to come by, but the children in Walnut Street’s Annie can sing, and they can sing well. Not one note was missed; there is much talent among the young people in this show. Other vocal talents include Christopher Sutton and Lyn Philistine, a husband and wife couple who play Rooster and Lily, the con artists who insert some slyness and intrigue to stir up this feel-good story. The two are hysterical in their demeanor and delivery of some unforgettable music. (“Easy Street!”) Also worthy of mention are Mary Martello who plays Miss Hannigan and Dan Schiff, playing F.D.R.. Martello and Schiff bring their own humor to their characters and are likely picks for favorite actors.
The scenic design (Robert Andrew Kovach) is a definite favorite aspect of Walnut Street’s Annie. While the orphanage is simple (which would surely align with an actual 1930s New York orphanage), Kovach goes all out with scenes such as Warbucks’s home (more than one audible ‘wow!’ could be heard from children in the audience as the scene changed and light was shone on the stage) and the slums of New York.
An amazing scene is the one where Annie, Oliver Warbucks, and Grace go into the streets of New York. The scenery is entirely entrancing. The 30s advertisements painted on the set mirroring New York is a poster one could happily place on the wall of a modern home. Add the phenomenal lighting (lighting design by Paul Black) of the initial view of the city where the Ensemble is silhouetted against the colorful background, and you have a simply stunning shot. From the costumes (Mary Folino) of beautiful and classy 1930s dresses, skirts, and slacks, and props (baby carriage, balloons, etc.), this shot was amazing. The cast (Annie, Warbucks, Grace, and the Ensemble) sings, “N.Y.C.!” while singing and dancing, and each time someone new sings the other cast members freeze. This sight is mesmerizing. If it were posted on the Internet, this reviewer would view it countless times. It is phenomenally well done.
And then to add an additional level of charm and professionalism, there’s Sandy (Sunny). Trained by animal trainer William Berloni, this dog is delightful. Presenting himself at opportune times throughout the show, the audience falls in love with him as much as Annie. The best part about Sandy? His eyebrows go up during Annie’s high notes, and he yawns multiple times during her rendition of “Tomorrow”. Classic.
When one experiences a movie as a child, it is difficult for an alternate rendition to live up to one’s expectations. However, this production of Annie surpasses all expectations. To anyone who has any remotely positive feelings towards this story before seeing the show: go see it. It is more than worth your while, and will bring you laughter and happy feelings during this winter season. Though it is getting cold, the sun’ll come out… tomorrow! If that’s the date for which you bought your ticket.
Running time: 2 hours and 20 minutes with one 15-minute intermission
Annie will be playing at Walnut Street Theatre (825 Walnut Street Theater Philadelphia, PA 19107) until Sunday, January 7th. For tickets call the box office at (215) 574-3550 or click here.