Directors: Emah Lane and Sian Goddard
Musical Director: Rachael Bloemendal
Choreographer: Brianna Haddock
Morrinsville Theatre
12-20 July 2024
Morrinsville Theatre previewed their production of Annie Jr last night to an enthusiastic and appreciative audience. Annie Jr is a condensed version of the much-loved musical featuring shortened songs with keys changed to suit a range of younger voices. Four days before the preview, the theatre announced that the entire season was already sold out. Once again, this proves there is a demand for musical theatre in the Waikato region. Bravo, Morrinsville Theatre.
A cast of 26 showed no signs of nerves as they variously made their way onto stage, some for their theatre debuts. Most of the ensemble had several roles requiring costume changes and this allowed them to explore different characters in multiple scenes.
Downstage alternated as various rooms in Miss Hannigan’s orphanage, the streets of New York city, and Bert Healy’s studio. Daddy Warbuck’s mansion set was static, upstage on a riser and appropriately dressed.
The sound, lighting, costumes, makeup and props were all splendid. Directors Emah Lane and Sian Goddard created a show that provided ample opportunity for the young cast to learn many stagecraft skills including moving set pieces, quick changes and spatial awareness. Each of the soloists brought their unique gifts to their roles and the Directors had empowered the youngsters giving them the freedom to shine and showcase a wide range of acting, dancing, acrobatic, and vocal talents.
Musical Director Rachael Bloemendal and Choreographer Brianna Haddock made up the creative team. Both Bloemendal and Haddock had previously appeared in junior versions of musicals in Morrinsville and it was an apt choice to include these two familiar faces with their solid skills and clever artistry as part of the production.
The night belonged to the titular character herself played by Emma Lamb. The ten year old strutted onto the stage like she had decades of experience, rather than it being her musical theatre debut. Lamb was expressive, witty and showcased a powerful belt that belied her small frame. It may have been a preview night for the show, but in actual fact it became a preview night of a career, if she chooses, that will head into the stratosphere. Lamb was, quite frankly, beyond superb.
Another theatre debut was made by Ariana Grande (Ari) who played the role of Sandy. Ari’s pawtrayal of the iconic character was well-rehearsed. Ari definitely raised the woof with her appearance.
All the cast, production team, crew, volunteers, parents and caregivers deserve a shoutout for creating a charming and memorable production of Annie. Congratulations to all involved, it takes a village.
Photo: Alice Parminter
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