Reviewed by Sophie Rowley

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The girl who taught us to believe that “…the sun’ll come out tomorrow” is back in Manchester. Based on the 1924 comic strip ‘little Orphan Annie’ by Harold Gray, Annie first opened on Broadway in 1977 and has been delighting audiences across the globe ever since. But what is it about Annie that continues to captivate theatre goers nearly 50 years later?

At its heart is the story of eleven-year-old Annie (Victoria Alsina), a sprinted, red haired orphan, whose determination and optimism never wavers despite the hardships she faces. Constantly escaping in search of the parents she longs to find, Annie’s dreams are repeatedly crushed by the cruel and embittered Miss Hannigan, played with gusto by La Voix. However, Annie’s greatest challenge may be winning over the wealthy Oliver Warbucks (Alex Bourne). With the support of Grace Farrell (Tanisha-Mae Brown) and the Warbucks household staff, Annie sets out to change his life – and perhaps her own – in the process.

Despite being set during the Great Depression this show is filled to the brim with energy and heart. Colin Richmond’s set design reinforces this contrast, instantly transporting the audience to 1930’s New York City. The Orphanage is presented as a bleak and unforgiving environment which reflects the harsh realities of the era as well as the difficult circumstances in which Annie lives. This is complemented wonderfully by the stark lighting and the worn threadbare costumes of Annie, the orphans and even Miss Hannigan. All these elements, together, create the perfect anthesis to Annie’s sunny disposition, allowing her optimism and resilience to shine through. A mindset that is highly welcomed by this 2026 audience.

Another element that is highly welcomed is the incredible cast of this production. Starting with the headline hero – Annie herself, Victoria Alsina, she fully embodies the role and thrives in her portrayal. Alsina combines humour, charm and attitude into her version of Annie that creates a fresh feel to this audacious orphan.

Alex Bourne delights as Oliver (Daddy) Warbucks, he begins as the tough loving business tycoon whose icy exterior slowly thaws as Annie’s charm takes over. Both Bourne and Alsina work wonderfully together and his character transition from prickly to paternal is heartwarming to watch.

As Grace Farrell, Tanisha-Mae Brown brings elegance and warmth to the character and plays a key role in Warbucks’ transformation. Her performance is complemented by Richmond’s clever costume design which remains faithful to the 1930s aesthetic while giving Grace a modern sophistication.

The villains are equally impressive. Christian Cooper and Amber Kennedy fully commit to their roles as Rooster and Lily and fully deliver as the scheming duo. Cooper makes Rooster as despicable as required, while Kennedy’s Lily is equally as detestable. The highly anticipated rendition of ‘Easy Street’ doesn’t disappoint and is a standout moment in the show filling the theatre with energy and excitement.

However, it is La Voix’s Miss Hannigan who steals the show. La Voix is the reason I wanted to see this show, and she certainly does not disappoint. She explores every facet of the character and transitions effortlessly between comedy, bitterness and vulnerability. At times Miss Hannigan’s treatment of the orphans cements her villainess character, yet by the end of the show, La Voix has charmed the audience so much that it is impossible not to fall in love with her.

I knew coming to watch this show that I was going to enjoy it. Annie is a timeless tale about hope, never giving up and trusting love will always win. Told primarily through a child’s voice it still managed to touch adult hearts which makes this show such a success. As mentioned throughout the talented cast and creative team make this production a triumph. Every set and costume choice allows the performers to fully embody their characters which in turn allows the audience to become completely immersed in the show. Director Nikolai Foster has successfully created a beautifully balanced production which, despite its occasional darker themes, retains the warmth and familiarity of your favourite film. I thoroughly enjoyed the show and am certain future audiences will too.

Don’t wait until tomorrow book now and let Annie enchant you – showing at the Palace Theatre Manchester until Saturday 20^th June, tickets available here.