There are some musicals that never seem to lose their magic, no matter how many times you see them. Annie is undoubtedly one of them.
The smash hit West End production has returned to the Wales Millennium Centre for a two week run, this time starring Claire Sweeney as the wonderfully awful Miss Hannigan.
We reviewed Annie when it last visited Cardiff in 2023, and while this production remains largely the same, with many familiar faces returning alongside a handful of new cast members, that’s certainly no criticism. If anything, it proves why this production continues to delight audiences wherever it goes.
If you missed it last time, now is the perfect opportunity to see one of the world’s most loved family musicals. And if you’ve already seen it before? We’d still happily recommend going again.
Most people will already know Annie’s story, whether through the original 1982 film or one of the more recent adaptations. The stage production stays faithful to the much loved original, taking audiences back to 1930s New York during the Great Depression.
Young Annie lives a difficult life in Miss Hannigan’s orphanage, dreaming that one day her parents will return for her. Everything changes when she’s selected to spend Christmas with billionaire Oliver Warbucks. What begins as little more than a publicity exercise gradually develops into something much deeper, as Annie brings hope and warmth into Warbucks’ world. Determined to make Annie happy, he promises to help find her parents, setting in motion the emotional journey that lies at the heart of the show.
Before the curtain even rises, the stage is already set inside the orphanage, immediately drawing the audience into Annie’s world. Sophia Saravanan makes a wonderful first impression as Annie, displaying remarkable confidence and beautiful vocals from the moment she steps on stage.
Note: The role of Annie is shared by several performers. Cast appearances may vary, and some images may feature a different performer.
The opening number, Maybe, is a lovely introduction, but it’s only moments later when It’s the Hard Knock Life bursts into life that Annie truly arrives. It remains one of the greatest musical theatre numbers ever written. The energy from the young cast is infectious and the audience immediately responds. Even having seen it before, it still sends a shiver down your spine.
The chemistry between the young performers is one of the production’s greatest strengths. Despite the constant squabbling and teasing between the orphans, there’s a genuine sense that they’re united by their shared experiences under the cruel rule of Miss Hannigan. Their performances feel authentic, full of determination and heart, making it easy to believe every moment.
Claire Sweeney steps into the role of Miss Hannigan following Craig Revel Horwood’s memorable performance when we last saw the production. They are very different interpretations, but Sweeney absolutely makes the role her own.
Her Hannigan perhaps doesn’t have quite the same exaggerated swagger, but she brings something equally effective, a more grounded, believable cruelty mixed with just enough comedy to keep audiences laughing. From her first appearance, staggering around clutching her beloved bottle of gin, she’s thoroughly unlikeable in exactly the way audiences want her to be. You love to hate her.
Christian Cooper is excellent as Rooster, Hannigan’s scheming brother. With his quick wit, smarmy charm and complete lack of morals, he’s a wonderfully entertaining villain. Alongside Amber Kennedy’s delightfully dim Lily, the trio create one of the show’s funniest moments during Easy Street. It’s cheeky, mischievous and brilliantly performed, earning plenty of laughs from the audience.
Alex Bourne also returns as Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks and once again delivers a warm, understated performance. Warbucks doesn’t immediately appear to be the caring father figure audiences expect. Initially awkward and emotionally distant, his relationship with Annie develops gradually and convincingly throughout the show. Watching those walls slowly come down is one of the production’s most rewarding storylines.
Tanisha-Mae Brown is excellent as Grace Farrell, Warbucks’ loyal secretary, whose warmth and kindness play an important role in helping Annie settle into her new surroundings.
Of course, no review of Annie would be complete without mentioning Sandy.
Played by Dizzy, the lovable dog steals every scene. There’s an old saying about never working with children or animals, but Annie happily ignores both rules and is all the better for it. The relationship between Annie and Sandy feels completely genuine, and every appearance from the four legged star is met with smiles across the auditorium.
The supporting company is exceptional throughout. Strong vocals, slick choreography and endless enthusiasm ensure every ensemble number feels full of life. Special mentions also go to the young performers playing Pepper and Molly, who each bring plenty of personality to the orphanage scenes. It’s impossible not to admire the talent and professionalism of such a young cast, many of whom look destined for bright futures on stage.
Annie has always been a musical that knows exactly how to tug at the heartstrings. Just when happiness seems within Annie’s reach, another obstacle appears. The emotional highs and lows never feel forced, and the final act delivers several genuinely touching moments.
Without revealing too much, Annie eventually learns the heartbreaking truth about her parents. It’s a deeply emotional scene that finally gives her the closure she’s spent her entire life searching for. While it may not be the ending she always imagined, it allows her to finally embrace the family she has found.
Whether you’re seeing Annie for the very first time or returning for another visit, this production delivers everything audiences could hope for.
You’ll leave humming classics including It’s the Hard Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow long after the curtain falls.
The passion and commitment shown by the entire company, particularly the young cast, is remarkable. Their performances are filled with energy, emotion and optimism, perfectly capturing the timeless message at the heart of this much loved musical.
As the famous song reminds us, “The sun’ll come out tomorrow.” After spending an evening with Annie, it’s difficult not to believe it.
Running time
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including one interval.
Performance times
- Tuesday to Saturday: 7.30pm
- Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: 2.30pm
Age guidance
Suitable for ages 5+. No children under two.
Tickets start from £22.
Annie runs at the Wales Millennium Centre for two weeks only, so we’d recommend booking sooner rather than later. Find out more and book your tickets here.
