'Annie' is an entertaining performance

CENTERVILLE, Utah — Northern Utah may have seen its share of rain lately, but the sun definitely came out during a recent performance of “Annie” at CenterPoint Legacy Theatre.

Sitting in the brand-new theater with comfortable seating and great stage visibility, the audience seemed especially supportive of this new production — now the second to have its debut at CPT.

Most of the attendees were probably already familiar with the story of the little, red-haired orphan girl named Annie who triumphs over her circumstances through her optimism and determination. After all, the character has been around in cartoon, radio, play or movie format for nearly a century.

Even though this meant there were big shoes to fill, the audience gave a warm reception that night to the cast and especially to Hanna Gemperline, who carried the title role very well. Gemperline played the character of Annie with the perfect combination of spunkiness and vulnerability. And since this is a musical, it helps to mention that her strong voice did it justice as well.

In fact, the entire ensemble of young girls exhibited a refreshing level of talent and professionalism. Some of the highlights of the play were songs such as “Hard Knock Life” and “Tomorrow.”

But Annie is only as good as her nemesis is bad. As the orphanage’s director, Miss Hannigan, Carol Thomas was thoroughly uncouth and distasteful as is called for. And though Daddy Warbucks, played by Jason Wadsworth, seemed to be swayed a little too quickly by Annie’s charms, he presented moments of adequate “gruffness” as well.

Other notable lead performances were given by Jessie Funk as Grace, Warbucks’ secretary; and Jonathon Crittenden and Mekenna Foster as Rooster and Lily, respectively. But a review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning a couple of minor characters, who almost stole the show. Samantha Brown as the littlest orphan, Molly, received some of the loudest applause for her moments on stage, and though his scene was brief and his lines were few, Annie’s furry sidekick, Sandy, represented by canine cast member Chewbacca Cutler, at least stole everyone’s hearts.

Though nothing can quite take the place of a live orchestra, the sound system was up to par. The set and props were top-notch and there were a few clever ideas as well for utilizing space, such as the three-level bunk beds for the girls.

A great family show performed by a great cast, “Annie” at CPT shouldn’t be missed. Shows run through May 7 and tickets are available at www.CenterPointTheatre.org or by calling 801-298-1302.

Kim has written for magazines like LDSLiving, the Washington Family, Back Home, Parents & Kids, and Natural Life. She has two novels with Covenant Communications. Visit her at www.kcgrant.com.