REVIEW: Claire Sweeney shines in heartwarming Annie production

Annie is one of the few musicals to have stood the test of time, and this latest production delighted the audience on its opening night at the Blackpool Opera House.

Packed with memorable songs, energetic choreography and an exceptional cast, Annie is set against the backdrop of 1930s New York during the Great Depression.

Annie is a young orphan determined to find her real parents, despite the hardships of life under the infamous Miss Hannigan, played by renowned actress, Claire Sweeney.

Fate intervenes when billionaire Oliver Warbucks invites Annie to spend Christmas at his mansion, setting in motion a story of hope and perseverance that has charmed audiences for generations.

Sweeney's truly shines in the role of Miss Hannigan. Her character still on our TV screens on Coronation Street, she proves to be equally at home on the stage, with her powerhouse vocals, and her humour generating many big laughs from the audience.

In the other main roles, Alex Bourne brings warmth to the role of Warbucks, making their growing bond during the show another of the highlights.

Tanisha-Mae Brown delivers an engaging Grace, while Christian Cooper and Amber Kennedy expertly play the scheming Rooster and glamorous Lily. In a production of well known showstopping songs, their performance of ‘Easy Street’ is perhaps one of the show’s standout numbers.

But the show wouldn’t be as spectacular without the incredible ensemble of orphans, who come to the fore particularly during the iconic ‘It's the Hard Knock Life.’

If you’ve never seen Annie before, whatever your age, you’ll love it. If you have, you’ll love it again. The songs, the set design, the sound, and the pace of the show are the perfect feel good escape.

Annie is on until Saturday at the Blackpool Opera House. Tickets at https://www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk/events/annie/