Annie – Theatre Review – UK Tour

21 September 2026 38

Sometimes I head to the theatre and my heart just isn’t really in it. I find myself thinking, “It’s an old show. I’ve seen it before. What else can they possibly do with it?” That was exactly how I felt walking into Annie the Musical at Milton Keynes Theatre recently. In recent years, the musical has relied a little too heavily on stunt casting (with mixed success, in my opinion), so I wasn’t sure what to expect.

The good news? I couldn’t have been more wrong,This UK touring production of Annie is as fresh, uplifting and entertaining as any I’ve seen, breathing joyful new life into one of the world’s most beloved musicals.

Sophia Saravanan Shines as Annie

Taking on the iconic title role, Sophia Saravanan who is nothing short of sensational.

Her vocals are effortlessly impressive, hitting every note with confidence while perfectly capturing Annie’s trademark optimism, determination and vulnerability. She brings warmth, charm and genuine emotion to the role, making every scene feel authentic.

Quite simply, she’s the best Annie I’ve seen.

Claire Sweeney is a Brilliant Miss Hannigan

Stepping into the ripped stockings and chaotic beehive of Miss Hannigan, Claire Sweeney delivers a performance that is both hilarious and brilliantly believable.

Hannigan is an exaggerated, almost cartoon-like character, but she only works when played with complete commitment. Previous portrayals, particularly some of the male-led performances, have occasionally tipped too far into pantomime.

Sweeney never does.

Instead, she creates a wonderfully wicked orphanage owner packed with comic timing, sharp delivery and just the right amount of menace. It’s inspired casting, resulting in a dazzlingly devilish Miss Hannigan who steals every scene she’s in.

Christian Cooper Makes Rooster Deliciously Unlikable

A special mention also goes to Christian Cooper as Rooster.

Having previously seen him as Rolf in The Sound of Music, I knew he was a strong performer, and he certainly doesn’t disappoint here.

He brings exactly the right mix of swagger, arrogance and charm, making Rooster wonderfully unlikeable while remaining hugely entertaining throughout.

My only slight reservation came during Easy Street, where the chosen key seemed to sit a little awkwardly for both Cooper and Sweeney. It’s a tiny blemish in an otherwise outstanding evening.

Tanisha-Mae Brown Has the Standout Voice of the Night

Although the cast of Annie is packed with impressive vocal talent, the evening’s standout voice belongs to Tanisha-Mae Brown as Grace Farrell.

Her vocals are effortless, powerful and beautifully controlled, matched by a confident stage presence that makes every appearance memorable.

She’s undoubtedly a performer to watch.

A Modern Production of Annie That Still Has Heart

Director Nikolai Foster first staged this production at Curve Leicester before its successful West End transfer and subsequent UK tour.

Thankfully, everything that made it such a success has remained intact.

The staging is dynamic, scene changes are seamless, the lighting design is striking and the pacing keeps the show moving with real energy. Despite being nearly 50 years old, this production feels surprisingly modern without ever losing the warmth, humour and heart that have made Annie such an enduring family favourite.

One Tiny Wish for Annie...

If I had to find one criticism, it would be poor Sandy.

The four-legged star still deserves a little more stage time and while we’re making requests, can we finally have a full rendition of Sandy?

Final Verdict: Annie is a Must-See at Milton Keynes and any other Theatre

If you’ve ever dismissed Annie as a musical you’ve already seen, think again.

This production proves there’s still plenty of life left in the world’s favourite orphan. Whether you’re introducing the show to your children for the very first time or rediscovering it yourself, you’ll leave the theatre with a smile on your face.

The production brings a joyful breath breath of fresh air into an old favourite. You really can bet your bottom dollar it’s a fantastic night out.

Annie plays at Milton Keynes Theatre until Sunday 26 July before continuing its UK tour through to March 2027.

Rating: ★★★★☆

Written by: GO EXPLORE RADIO

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