Last night, we visited the Opera House in Manchester to review the Annie UK Tour. Annie is a movie I have grown up with, watched at Christmas, and sung along to for many years. As such, it feels like part of my history, so the stage production had much to live up to.
What You Will Find Here
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Review Annie UK Tour Manchester
A Little About The History of Annie
“Little Orphan Annie” is a beloved comic strip character created by Harold Gray in 1924. The comic strip follows the adventures of Annie, a plucky young orphan girl who became a cultural phenomenon in the United States during the Great Depression.
It inspired various adaptations, including radio programs, stage musicals, animated TV series, and films. Which became a Broadway musical in 1977, “Annie,” which introduced iconic songs like “Tomorrow.” Annie’s character embodies hope and resilience, making her a timeless symbol. The legacy of “Little Orphan Annie” is a cherished part of popular culture.
This became the basis for the 1982 film Annie. Starring Aileen Quinn as Annie, Albert Finney as Daddy Warbucks, Carol Burnett as Miss Hannigan
This remade in 2014 with Quvenzhané Wallis as Annie, Jamie Foxx as Will Stacks (a modernized version of Daddy Warbucks), and Cameron Diaz as Miss Hannigan.
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
Simply adorable, Annie (Sharangi Gnanavarathan) 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 Amelia Adams as Grace. Craig Revel-Horwood was fabulous, playing the perfect baddie, Miss Hannigan.
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 Opera House Manchester until the 30th of September with tickets from £13.00. See here for parking advice to get theatre parking rates.
You can then see it at
- Sunderland Empire, Mon 2 Oct – Sat 7 Oct 2023
- New Wimbledon Theatre, Tue 7 Nov – Sat 11 Nov 2023
- Bristol Hippodrome, Mon 20 Nov – Sat 25 Nov 2023
Please note I was gifted the tickets in return for an honest review.
Sarah Christie is a craft, food, cruise, and family travel blogger Extraordinary Chaos, Cruising For All and Mini Travellers. Known for her unique perspective and ability to find beauty in chaos, Sarah designs and creates craft projects as well as creating recipes for people who want to cook from scratch the easy way. Whilst also exploring family travel and how to navigate it.