Workington Amateur Operatic Society perform Annie at Carnegie Theatre

Workington Amateur Operatic Society took to the stage last week at the Carnegie Theatre in Workington, to perform a wonderful adaptation of the hit broad way production Annie.

Annie and Sandy (Image: Dave Wilson) As a child Annie was a personal favourite of mine with the video in my nana's old player being switched on at least once a week to watch the 1982 movie adaptation- so I was excited to see how the society would take on the epic production.

And I have to say it was a total delight – with epic show numbers, brilliant choreography and a stellar production all on offer throughout the show.

Miss Hannigan with the orphans (Image: Dave Wilson) The whole cast were fantastic, with many of the younger performers particularly impressive in their professionalism and stage presence.

Songs like ‘Hard Knock Life', ‘Fully dressed' and ‘Tomorrow' which are long associated with the production brought joy to the theatre- with special credit afforded to the leading lady Kate Voce- who played Annie.

The cast performed Easy Street at the Carnegie Theatre, Workington. (Image: Dave Wilson) Natasha McKenzie gave a fantastic performance of Miss Hannigan with the perfect blend of humour and villainism shown throughout the evening and of course Jack Pike who once again wowed in a leading role as Oliver Warbucks. 

As if all these wonderful elements weren't enough, theatre goers were particularly delighted when a real life dog was brought out onto the stage as Annie's beloved pet Sandy.

Annie and Oliver Warbucks (Image: Dave Wilson) Norman Brayton, President of WAOS said: “Annie was first presented by the society in 1985 and brings back happy personal memories when I was fortunate to play the role of ‘Oliver Warbucks'… where have those 40 years gone.

“It is an even greater pleasure now to see the advanced achievements in our productions from today's outstanding breadth of talent, across a wide range both on and off stage, and incorporating support of today's technology to bring a theatre experience to our area of the highest standard.”

The whole show was a complete delight, with congratulations going to all of those involved both on and off stage.