by Claire DeMarco
Annie (Aubree Liscotti) lives in a New York orphanage in the 1930’s during the height of the Depression. It’s a dreary place run by Miss Hannigan (Connor McCanlus). Hannigan is not nice and most times is a little inebriated.
The orphans’ lives are not pleasant, but it’s Annie who is always pushing to leave that horrible place and find her biological parents. She always looks for ways to leave the orphanage, but thus far has been unsuccessful.
One day, Miss Hannigan receives a visit from Grace Farrell (Caroline Nicolian), secretary to Oliver Warbucks (Allan Snyder), one of the wealthiest men in America. Farrell’s mission is to bring an orphan to his home to spend two weeks during the Christmas holidays.
To his dismay, Warbucks discovers that his orphan is a girl and not the boy he requested. But Annie is disarmingly charming, and with Farrell’s support, he is soon won over. He finds a new purpose in life and intends to adopt Annie.
Although excited and honored by Warbucks’ offer, Annie is determined to find her real parents. Warbucks calls all his high connections to help make that happen.
Back at the orphanage, Miss Hannigan is surprised by two visitors – her brother, Rooster Hannigan (Isaac Miller), and his girl, Lily St. Regis (Allie Burns). Recently out of jail, Rooster is already planning his next illegal escapade. Together with Miss Hannigan, they all lament their state in life, feeling sorry for themselves.
Two stories evolve. Will Annie find her parents? Do the Hannigan siblings and Rooster’s girlfriend find a way out of their miserable lives?
With strong vocals and great stage presence, Liscotti captivates as the ever-hopeful Annie. She delivers with “Maybe” and “Tomorrow,” songs synonymous with this musical.
McCanlus owns the stage as the obnoxious Miss Hannigan. His facial features, perfectly timed side glances, and physical movements accentuate his raucous, often tipsy behavior. An outrageous character, but you can’t help but love him! McCanlus sings “Little Girls” as a testimonial of his dislike for his wards, especially Annie.
Snyder transitions from a man whose entire world is centered on making money into a gentle human being, now in sync with the more important things in life. What a powerful solo rendition of “Something Was Missing.”
Miller and Burns complement one another, Miller as the con artist and Burns as his ditsy girlfriend and cohort. They solidify that cohesion, along with McCanlus, in their lament-filled agony about their lives in the song “Easy Street.”
Nicolian portrays Farrell as the dutiful and supportive secretary who, in many instances, has more influence on her boss than he realizes.
A shout out to Domenica Buffo, Olivia Duddie, Ainsley Christof, Brenna Asti, Charley Galman, and Charlie Kennis. They delivered as the other orphans in Annie’s world, especially with the song “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile.”
The entire talented cast contributes to this production’s success.
Note: The concept for “Annie”, the Broadway musical, originated from a 1920’s comic strip titled “Little Orphan Annie.” The show’s timeframe was moved to the 1930’s Great Depression. This musical has won seven Tony awards. It remains a favorite musical production.
Book by Thomas Meehan, Music by Charles Strouse, and Lyrics by Martin Charnin.
Wonderful music accompaniment by the orchestra under the direction of Dr. Francesca Tortorello, DMA.
Kudos to Director Quinn Patrick Shannon.
Note: Depending on the performance date, many of the actors’ roles are performed by other members of the cast.
-CED
“Annie” runs from February 19 to March 1at the Byham Theater, 101 6th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. “Annie” is a production of Pittsburgh Musical Theater. For tickets and additional information, click here.
