Stage Review: Sun shines on Harrell Theatre's 'Annie'
The uplifting “Annie” serves well as a holiday show, proving that love, honesty and adorable dogs will triumph, and that Republicans and Democrats can find common ground.
OK, so it’s somewhat of a fantasy. But the production at Collierville’s Harrell Theatre has plenty of gumption and is worth taking the family for a look and listen.
Cast members from Harrell Theatre's production of "Annie".
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Director Amy Hanford has mastered the ability to get large numbers of children to sing and dance onstage and make it spectacular. The opening scene in the orphanage has rows of bunk beds spilling over with kids who perform their hearts out.
It’s great stuff and the big song-and-dance numbers are the most successful aspect of the production. Less showy scenes tend to magnify the unevenness of the talent, however there’s always something worthy going on somewhere on the busy stage.
Lillie Burrow takes on the demanding title role and does a good job of it. She’s been Helen Keller in “The Miracle Worker” and Scout in “To Kill a Mockingbird” among other roles and is showing a gift for the stage.
To watch Cassie Thompson chew the scenery as the conniving Miss Hannigan is a delight. Going over the top can be a risky thing, but Thompson (who specializes in zany) has the moves and the voice to make it uproarious.
John Koski as Oliver Warbucks is solid as the billionaire who orders presidents around — he has a commanding presence and strong voice to accompany the requisite shiny dome.
Many of the other roles are performed by different actors at different performances. I saw Ashleigh Williams as Grace Farrell, and she was wonderful as the capable assistant to Warbucks and has a glorious voice.
Other notables include Fred Harpell as a double for Franklin Roosevelt and Chris Todd in various roles.
As usual at the Harrell, there are terrific sets, great costumes and an orchestra well led by Angelo Rapan.
God bless us every one! No, wait — I mean the sun will come out tomorrow! Go have a good time.
Annie
Performances at Harrell Theatre, 40 West Powell Rd., Collierville. Fridays and Saturdays 8 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., through Dec. 20. Tickets: $15, $12 students, seniors, children. Call 853-3228 or harrelltheatre.org.
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