Last night, I headed into Manchester to the Palace Theatre to review the 2026 Annie UK Tour, starring La Voix as Miss Hannigan. I first saw this production three years ago and remember leaving the theatre thinking it was excellent. But this year’s tour somehow feels even more vibrant, energetic, and fast-paced, despite the show being, on paper, almost the same production. I’m not entirely sure how that’s possible, but the difference is noticeable from the moment the curtain rises.
There’s always a risk when revisiting an adaptation of a beloved film, especially one as iconic as Annie. The story has stood the test of time for decades, continuing to charm new generations with its optimism, humour, and unforgettable songs. Fans arrive with high expectations, and nostalgia can be a difficult thing to satisfy.
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Thankfully, this production leans into what makes Annie special rather than trying to reinvent it completely. The warmth, heart, and larger-than-life musical numbers are all still here, but the pacing feels tighter and the overall energy noticeably sharper than I remembered.
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A Little About The History of Annie
The story of Annie actually began long before the famous film and stage musical. Annie was originally created by cartoonist Harold Gray in 1924 as the comic strip Little Orphan Annie. The adventures of the spirited young orphan quickly captured the hearts of readers across America, particularly during the Great Depression, when Annie’s optimism, determination and resilience offered hope in difficult times.
The character’s popularity led to numerous adaptations over the decades, including radio shows, television series and films. However, Annie reached new heights when it was transformed into the hit Broadway musical Annie in 1977. The show became an instant success, winning multiple Tony Awards and introducing audiences to iconic songs including Tomorrow, It’s the Hard Knock Life and Maybe.
The musical later inspired the much-loved 1982 film adaptation, starring Aileen Quinn as Annie, Albert Finney as Daddy Warbucks and Carol Burnett as the unforgettable Miss Hannigan. For many fans, this remains the definitive version of the story and helped cement Annie’s place in popular culture.
A new generation was introduced to the tale through the 2014 remake, which modernised the story for contemporary audiences. This version starred Quvenzhané Wallis as Annie, Jamie Foxx as Will Stacks, a modern take on Daddy Warbucks, and Cameron Diaz as Miss Hannigan.
More than a century after Annie first appeared in newspapers and nearly 50 years after the Broadway musical debuted, the story continues to resonate with audiences. Its themes of hope, perseverance and believing that tomorrow can be better than today remain just as powerful as ever.
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What is the Show About
Annie” is a heartwarming story set during the Great Depression in New York City, focusing on the life of a spirited orphan named Annie.
The narrative revolves around her experiences in a harsh orphanage run by Miss Hannigan, her unexpected opportunity to spend time with wealthy industrialist Oliver Warbucks, and her quest to find her real parents.
Throughout her journey, Annie’s unwavering optimism and kindness impact those around her. The story culminates in a heartwarming conclusion that emphasizes the power of love and resilience. “Annie” is known for its iconic songs and enduring message of hope and transformation.
My Review Of Annie
Simply adorable, Annie (Victoria Alsina) was the perfect Annie, believable, talented and cute. As were the whole child cast, such talent and energy flowed to the audience. You’re Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile, and It’s a Hard Knock Life were my favourite moments. All the favourites were there. These kids have talent in bundles.
They couldn’t have cast a better Daddy Warbucks; Alex Bourne was fabulous and a dream combination with Tanisha-Mae Brown as Grace. La Voix was fabulous, playing the perfect baddie, Miss Hannigan, it was as if she was born for this part.
As a lover of both movies, the show is incredible, upbeat and joyous. It has the perfect balance of nostalgia but also improves the story. Annie feels like a warm hug, a nod to the past and much-loved memories, but also engaging to a new audience. I smiled from ear to ear the whole way through. And the standing ovation said it all.
Where Can I See Annie?
Annie is playing at the Palace Theatre, Manchester, until the 20th June with tickets from £15.60. See here for parking advice to get theatre parking rates.
You can then see it at
- Milton Keynes Theatre, Tue 21 Jul – Sun 26 Jul 2026
- Bristol Hippodrome, Tue 18 Aug – Sun 23 Aug 2026
- Edinburgh Playhouse, Tue 15 Sep – Sun 20 Sep 2026
- Liverpool Empire, Tue 22 Sep – Sat 26 Sep 2026
- Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Tue 13 Oct – Sun 18 Oct 2026
- Woking Theatre, Mon 16 Nov – Sat 21 Nov 2026
- New Theatre Oxford, Tue 15 Dec 2026 – Sat 2 Jan 2027
- Sunderland Empire, Mon 18 Jan – Sat 23 Jan 2027
- King’s Theatre, Glasgow, Tue 2 Mar – Sun 7 Mar 2027
Please note I was gifted the tickets, but under no obligation to review.
