Hawth Theatre, Crawley: 20th – 24th October 2026
Full of big songs, cheeky humour and heartwarming moments, Annie is the feel-good musical that never goes out of style.
Hitting the stage at The Hawth, Crawley, this much-loved musical brings together a cheeky young heroine, a wonderfully wicked Miss Hannigan, toe-tapping songs and a story that reminds us all that better days are never too far away. With Victoria Alsina as Annie, Claire Sweeney bringing her own deliciously mischievous touch to Miss Hannigan, and a cast full of personality, this touring production delivers a generous helping of nostalgia, laughter and fun for the whole family.
Set in 1930s New York, Annie follows a spirited young orphan who refuses to let life at Miss Hannigan’s miserable orphanage crush her dreams. Despite the strict rules and her matron’s tyrannical ways, Annie never gives up hope of finding her real parents.
Her luck takes a turn when billionaire Oliver Warbucks invites her to spend Christmas at his luxurious home, introducing her to a world far removed from the orphanage. But Miss Hannigan has plans of her own and isn’t about to let Annie’s newfound happiness get in the way. What follows is a heartwarming adventure packed with cheeky humour, memorable songs and enough twists and turns to keep younger (and older) audience members hooked.
Victoria Alsina Shines as Annie
At the centre of the production is Victoria Alsina, whose portrayal of Annie is packed with charm, confidence and plenty of spirit. She captures the young orphan’s cheeky nature and determination beautifully, making it easy to root for her from the moment she steps on stage.
Her vocals are a real standout, with a powerful belt that fills the theatre and brings real punch to the musical numbers. She also nails the American accent, helping her performance feel natural and convincing throughout. Victoria strikes just the right balance between Annie’s playful side and her more heartfelt moments, delivering a performance that’s full of personality.
Claire Sweeney Makes Miss Hannigan a Treat to Watch
Every great Annie needs a Miss Hannigan who can command the stage, and Claire Sweeney (Brookside, Coronation Street) gives the character plenty of personality. As the tyrannical matron of the orphanage, she brings a wicked sense of humour to a woman who is thoroughly fed up with the children in her care. She is selfish, scheming and wonderfully over the top, making her an entertaining character to watch even when she is behaving terribly.
Sweeney brings a wonderfully theatrical quality to her singing as Miss Hannigan, delivering her numbers with character and a cheeky, expressive vocal style. Her performance of Little Girls is a standout, capturing Miss Hannigan’s frustration with a deliciously sarcastic edge, while Easy Street gives her the chance to show off her musical timing alongside her fellow performers, Christian Cooper as Rooster and Amber Kennedy as Lily, a deliciously devilish duo.
Daddy Warbucks and Grace Farrell Bring Heart to the Story
Annie’s adventure would not be complete without Oliver Warbucks, the wealthy businessman whose life takes an unexpected turn when he welcomes her into his home. Initially, Warbucks appears to have everything money can buy, yet there is a sense that something is missing. Annie’s arrival gradually brings warmth into his carefully ordered world, creating one of the musical’s most touching relationships.
Daddy Warbucks is a character with plenty of room for development, and seeing his softer side emerge is a real pleasure. His relationship with Annie never feels as though it is only about grand gestures or extravagant gifts. Instead, it is about two people discovering how much they can mean to one another.
Grace Farrell, Warbucks’ capable and kind-hearted secretary, is another welcome presence. She offers Annie a sense of security and compassion, helping her settle into unfamiliar surroundings. Grace brings a lovely gentleness to the production, balancing the bigger personalities around her and reinforcing one of the show’s central messages: family is about love and care as much as it is about where you come from.
Songs That Have Everyone Singing Along
One of the biggest pleasures of Annie is its iconic soundtrack. Even if you have never seen the musical before, there is a good chance you recognise at least one of its songs. The score is packed with numbers that have stood the test of time, giving the production plenty of opportunities to lift the roof and get the audience tapping their feet.
It’s the Hard Knock Life is a real highlight, capturing the frustrations of life at the orphanage with infectious rhythm and attitude. The young performers bring tremendous character to the number, turning the children’s everyday struggles into an entertaining musical moment. It’s funny, catchy and full of personality, making it one of those songs you’ll probably find yourself humming on the way home.
A Special Mention for Sandy and Chrysler Team
No review of Annie would be complete without mentioning Dizzy, the dog playing Sandy. This four-legged star is a welcome addition to the production, bringing extra charm to Annie’s story and giving everyone another character to fall in love with. The response from the audience every time Sandy is on stage adds to the magic.
Annie’s fellow orphans were played by the Chrysler Team on opening night, featuring Marnie Rae Waren-Baker, Jemima Lown, Thandie Lalji, Amber Koduah-Hutchinson, Dolly Ismail and Maddy Collings. All were fantastic, giving passionate, energetic and totally believable performances. You can expect great things for all of these children.
Is Annie Worth Seeing?
Absolutely. Annie is a feel-good musical with a winning combination of humour, memorable music and genuine heart. Victoria Alsina makes a fantastic leading lady, Claire Sweeney brings plenty of comic bite to Miss Hannigan, and Daddy Warbucks and Grace Farrell help give Annie’s journey its emotional depth. Add the talented young cast (well done, Chrysler team), the wonderful Sandy and a soundtrack filled with classics, and there’s so much to enjoy.
Most importantly, Annie leaves you with a smile and a little reminder that even when life feels difficult, there is always room for hope.
Annie UK tour review – 5 stars
Image credit: Paul Coltas
