|
|
Must-See For All Ages
Author: Lauren Harshbarger
Position: Teen Critic - July 29, 1999
|
Back to Menu
|
In the suburbs, it's rare
to find a theatrical gem so Broadway-esque that you have
to stop and think about where you really are. Summer Place Theatre's production of the
musical Annie is one of those rare gems in both talent and professionalism.
The story remains the same: It's 1933 and the Great Depression is in
full swing. Annie (Kallie Flynn Childress), the red-haired orphan left
with half a locket is still living in the New York City Municipal
Orphanage under the care of the ever-evil Miss Hannigan (Corrie Graham).
Business tycoon Oliver Warbucks (Steven Zeidler), after taking Annie
under his wing for the holiday season, sets out on the impossible search
for her parents, and the rest, as most know, is history.
Although the story is the same as that of other local productions,
Summer Place's version of Annie is definitely a cut above the rest.
From the very beginning of the show, it is clear that the production
is above average. The overture previews the orchestra's liveliness
and unity and the set is painted perfectly, down to the bricks on the
orphanage walls.
When Kallie breaks into her first musical number, Maybe, it is even
more apparent that the production is not your average, local show.
Unlike many children who portray Annie, Kallie avoids "pushing" or
straining her voice to achieve a more "grown up" sound. Instead, she
makes use of her natural talents, offering a delightful listening
experience for all.
Another significant difference that sets apart Summer Place's version
in the surprisingly small number of children in the cast. Aside from
seven "orphans," the cast is almost entirely adults, as is often seen
on Broadway. While small in number, the children do an outstanding job.
Their Rendition of It's The Hard Knock Life is especially exciting, with
rhythmic stomping, pounding, and an amazing amount of enthusiasm.
As for the adults in the cast, their talents help bring the plot to
life. During NYC, the show is performed while cast members walk through
the aisles. The performers rise to the occasion, making for an almost
surreal, "in the moment" experience for audience members.
While the entire group does an outstanding job, Graham deserves
special recognition for her portrayal of Miss Hannigan. Hannigan,
an alcoholic version of the Wicked Witch of the West, is one of those
characters audiences can't help but dislike. Still, Graham manages to
force smiles out of the audience every time she walks on stage. Her
facial expressions and gestures are hilarious, adding a comical effect
that makes you (almost) start to like her character.
The choreography - even though it is rarely performed in large groups
- is precise and powerful. Each move is executed with confidence and
ease, proof of hours of rehearsal.
Summer Place's costumes and props also are signs of a high quality
production. The attention to detail is wonderful and the extra effort
shows. There is no "thrown together" look as is often seen in local
productions.
Summer Place Theatre's production of Annie is a must-see for all ages.
It's a Broadway-quality performance at a fraction of the price, and
although you won't leave with over-priced souvenirs, you'll still leave
humming the same tune, "the sun will come out tomorrow..."
|
|
Back to Menu
|
Back to Top
|
|
|
