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Fox Theatre, Atlanta, GA.
December 5, 2023.
The long-lasting Tony Award-winning musical Annie has made its approach to Atlanta’s Fox Theatre. The Nationwide Tour might be on the town for a restricted engagement, from December 5-10. Directed by Jenn Thompson, with choreography by Patricia Wilcox, the present consists of viewers favorites, “It’s the Arduous Knock Life,” “Little Women” and, after all, “Tomorrow.” Identified for its spunky redhead with a penchant for all the time discovering the bright-side, Annie is timeless for a motive – its capacity to seize the hearts of every technology and remind them, “The solar will come out tomorrow.”
Whether or not by means of track, or good comedic timing, Rainier “Rainey” Treviño portrayed the titular orphan with wide-eyed surprise. Treviño’s vocals have been assured and clear – really excellent for somebody her age and stage. It was opening night time, and what nerves she might have initially felt shortly dissipated. At solely 11 years outdated, her professionalism shone when a technical problem pressured a quick pause early within the present. With out lacking a beat, Treviño hurried offstage, and returned moments later earlier than belting out the beloved “Tomorrow” with the lovable mutt Sandy by her facet.
Stefanie Londino, within the function of Miss Hannigan, was a direct standout. Londino completely captured the essence of Hannigan – I couldn’t assist however shortly draw parallels between her efficiency and Carol Burnett’s within the 1982 movie. Though seemingly impressed by Burnett’s depiction of Hannigan, Londino took her personal method to the negligent antagonist, including blues-y runs and cheeky mannerisms to the songs, filling out the character much more. That is Londino’s second Nationwide Tour as Miss Hannigan, and I can’t think about anybody else filling her snakeskin sneakers.
Christopher Swan reprised his function as Oliver Warbucks, and it’s simple to see why. Swan nailed the powerful exterior, soft-hearted billionaire. The dynamics between Swan and Treviño made the timeless characters much more endearing. As the 2 sang and danced throughout “I Don’t Want Something However You,” the viewers may see the belief and admiration every had for the opposite. Julia Nicole Hunter reprised her function as Grace, secretary to Mr. Warbucks. Hunter’s command of the stage proved her veteran standing. It was apparent Hunter was made for a job as this – no nonsense, but form, with crystal-clear vocals as well.
Having so many key roles reprised by former actors speaks to the standard of the staff surrounding Annie. I can’t assist however assume how having that continuity is helpful to the younger actors who rotate out and in as orphans. What a present to have seasoned adults onstage and off to information and help them.
Whereas I used to be a bit dissatisfied by the shortage of huge dance numbers, choreography shone for small teams. “Simple Road” captured the jazzy track and iconic characters by means of dance. One other standout choreography second was in “You’re By no means Absolutely Dressed And not using a Smile.” Maybe it was as a result of we have been into the second act of opening night time, however on this quantity the orphans appeared a bit extra relaxed and in a position to take pleasure in themselves onstage. The viewers responded accordingly – the largest applause of the night time, up till that time, occurred as the women hit their remaining pose.
My signature track as a younger lady was “Tomorrow.” I’d belt the lyrics, as my mother accompanied me on the piano, or generally I’d sing acapella to family and friends who would pay attention. However, as with so many people, it’s simple for childlike optimism to get replaced with realism backed by life’s “arduous knocks.” Having the possibility to as soon as once more be swept away by the without end sunny outlook of Broadway’s Annie was simply what my coronary heart wanted getting into this Christmas season.
Remember to catch Annie on its Nationwide Tour! Go to www.AnnieTour.com to study extra.
By Melody McTier Thomason of Dance Informa.
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