A capacity audience at the Pavilion Theatre, Gorleston, enjoyed this polished production of a musical which tells the story of Annie, a courageous orphan who dreams of finding her parents.

A capacity audience at the Pavilion Theatre, Gorleston, enjoyed this polished production of a musical which tells the story of Annie, a courageous orphan who dreams of finding her parents.

The splendid Gorleston Theatre Company cast performed with poise and panache, the “orphans” delighting the audience.

Eleanor Ashby interpreted the eponymous main role with a maturity beyond her years, rising admirably to the challenges of her demanding role.

Michael Coleman played the role of the billionaire Warbucks most cleverly. The scene in which he could not quite find the words to tell Annie that he wanted to adopt her was full of dramatic tension and pathos.

The poseurs, pretending to be Annie's parents, were well portrayed by Matthew Canwell and Kelly Kirby while Miss Hannigan, proprietor of the orphanage who aided and abetted them, was excellent acted by Mary Carter, the personification of severity.

Much of the show's success is undoubtedly due to skilful direction by “Dusty” Miller, choreography by Jane King and dedicated musical direction by Krista Ribbons.