Annie has returned to the Wales Millennium Centre and once again proved exactly why this musical remains such a beloved favourite among theatre fans. It’s the kind of show that sweeps you up and warms your heart. I’ve always had a special place for Annie — it was the very first musical I ever saw — and somehow, all these years later, it still feels just as joyful, just as iconic, and just as full of wonder.
Annie tells the story of a plucky young orphan determined to find a better life beyond the walls of Miss Hannigan’s grim orphanage. Set against the backdrop of 1930s New York, her world changes when she’s invited to spend Christmas with billionaire Oliver Warbucks. What follows is a heart‑warming journey filled with hope, mischief, and music as Annie searches for her real parents — all while dodging the schemes of those who want to stand in her way.
The talent on that stage was extraordinary. Sophia Saravanan as Annie delivered a performance that left the audience absolutely stunned. Her voice — powerful, clear, and full of emotion — is remarkable for someone so young. Saravanan is definitely one to watch; she carried the role with confidence, charm, and a sincerity that tugged at every heart‑string in the room.
Claire Sweeney brought glorious chaos as Miss Hannigan — one of my all‑time favourite theatre villains. Her gin‑soaked, little‑girl‑hating eccentricity was played to perfection, and her rendition of Little Girls was a standout moment of the night. She balanced comedy and menace beautifully, making every entrance a treat.
Tanisha‑Mae Brown dazzled as Grace Farrell. Her vocals were nothing short of breathtaking, leaving me with goosebumps. She brought warmth and elegance to the role, creating a lovely contrast to the more chaotic characters around her.
And of course… the dog. Little Dizzy as Sandy stole the audience’s hearts the moment they trotted onstage. A very cute — and very welcome — addition to the performance.
The rest of the cast delivered excellence at every turn: Alex Bourne as Daddy Warbucks, Christian Cooper as Rooster, Amber Kennedy as Lily. And the ensemble; Carl Sanderson, Sophie Elmes, Harrison Burley, Elliot David Parkes, Issy Khogali, Michaela Stern, Yujin Park, Luke Harley and Zoë Canham.
Every single performer brought energy, precision, and passion to the stage, creating a world that felt vibrant, lived‑in, and bursting with life.
The staging was lavish and intricate, pulling you straight into 1930s New York without ever distracting from the actors. The iconic score — from Maybe to Tomorrow — remains timeless, and hearing it performed with such heart was a genuine delight.
This revival of Annie is everything you want it to be: heart‑warming, family‑friendly, upbeat, and full of charm. It’s a show that leaves you smiling long after the curtain falls. Whether you’re revisiting it or seeing it for the first time, it’s absolutely one I would recommend.
Annie is at the Wales Millennium Centre until the 18th July and tickets are selling out fast so get yours now!
For more information on what’s going on at the Wales Millennium Centre you can visit their website, Facebook and Instagram.
And don’t forget to check out the official Annie tour website, Facebook and Instagram!
All photo credits to Paul Coltas.
