Cappies Review: Spunk, Energy Mark High School's Production of 'Annie'

A starry-eyed, red-haired girl escapes into the dark, chilly night in hopes of finding her long-lost parents, who had abandoned her on the doorstep of a New York orphanage. The wind goes straight through her threadbare sweater, but yet, she still trudges on.

She will never give up the hope of finding her beloved parents. Northwest High School puts on the happy-go-luck production of Annie, a grand night filled with bright lights and over the-top dramatics.

Originally based upon the book by Thomas Meehan, the story surrounds a cheery girl in the folds of Depressions-stricken NYC. It follows the freckled-faced child as she searches to find the whereabouts of her parents, but is taken in by a hard-nosed billionaire where the shenanigans begin.

Annie (Casey Richards) eased onto the stage with a bright smile and high energy. Her spunky style was light and entertaining, with a cheerful step and upbeat stage presence. She guided the show along with her grand theatrics and lively personality.

Oliver Warbucks (Matt Arndt) was strong and commanding as the billionaire with a hard exterior but warm heart. His voice drew attention and flows smoothly throughout the production.  His vigorous, high-spirited manner was engaging and enjoyable to watch.

The delightful and amusing Miss Hannigan (Riley Price) grabbed attention with a piquant style and zealous manner. Her hilarious theatrics brought spunk to the show, as well as fanatical energy and comical personality. She delivered sidesplitting lines with a creative ease.

Grace (Briana Tomlinson) was easy-going and graceful in the spotlight. With a beautiful voice and sweet temperament, she had a cheerful stage presence and girly approach to a light-hearted, likeable character. She brought elegance to the stage. Rooster (Brandon Janssen) swaggered across the stage with a humorous style and funk.

His amusing theatrics play into a cool manner with a certain effortlessness. He and Lily (Emily Reiter) had a comic, witty compatibility that was entertaining and showy.

The light work brightened a stage filled with a dazzling New York setting to a lavish mansion living room. The sets created a sunny tone with the wonderful artwork that decorates the set.

A snowflake light created a magical touch to a nippy New York night that lit up the theatre. The costumes demonstrated the harsh life of the Hooverites and orphans, and gave flair to those of the upper classes. The choreography was charming and delightful, with a bright style and flamboyance.

Though at times the show seemed to drag and the energy dwindled, the second act really picked up and created a strong ending and satisfying ending. The sound wasn’t always the clearest, but brought the music and energy to the audience during dance numbers. Though some of the cast seemed tired, others made up for it with liveliness and bright personalities.

Northwest's Annie is sweet and spunky, with comical theatrics and showy characters. The story of a clear-eyed girl with a big dream is sure to capture hearts of anyone, today or "Tomorrow."

By Sarah Barger, Marquette High School

This review was submitted by The Cappies, a program that trains high school theater and journalism students as critics. The students then attend shows at other schools, write reviews and publish those reviews in local news outlets. At the end of the year, student critics vote for awards that are presented at a formal Cappies Gala.