 |
| Lydia Milosavljevic and Clare Pinketon with Maverck |
Presented by
Phoenix Players
ANU Arts
Centre until October 19th
Reviewed by
Bill Stephens
There are
good reasons why the musical “Annie” is among the most frequently revived
musicals among both professional and amateur companies. Set in depression-era New York, Its tuneful
score and appealing story about a relentlessly optimistic young orphan girl, who
is plucked from a run-down orphanage by a billionaire, who enlists the help of
the American President to find her parents, offer excellent opportunities for
star performances, and delightful roles for child actors.
Lydia Milosavljevic,
who alternates the role with Clare Pinkerton, is delightful as Annie. Acting
confidently and possessing a clarion clear voice, she gives a feisty performance
in the central role. Judy Satrapa is strangely subdued as the tyrannical Miss
Hannigan. She certainly looks the part, but could sharpen her attack more to
fully exploit the comedic possibilities of the role. She receives good support from Dim Ristevski
(Rooster) and Maigan Fowler (Lilly).
It seemed a
strange decision for Don Bemrose to play Daddy Warbucks with a full head of
slicked-back hair, given that the role is based on an iconic bald-headed comic
strip character, however he brought a fine singing voice and strong presence to
the role, though little chemistry.
Miranda
Cookman was an attractive Grace Farrell, and Bill Lord an appropriately stately
President Roosevelt.
Directed by
Kelda McManus, this is an ambitious production from Phoenix Players. There are many
effective moments, an irresistible children’s ensemble, a huge cast and a
terrific band under Rose Shorney. Pity therefore that on opening night the show
appeared under-rehearsed with the ensemble scenes lacking the expected polish,
and the sparkle dulled by technical problems with scenery and lighting.