Comedian W. C. Fields once quipped, "Never work with animals or children." Fortunately, Tacoma Little Theatre ignored his admonishment and produced Annie.

In the director's notes, Michael O'Hara comments we are ". . . still dealing with the familiar themes of unemployment, poverty, hunger, stock market woes and war as depicted in this classic musical." Even though it's been nearly 100 years since the comic strip Little Orphan Annie was created, we haven't changed that much. However, no matter the difficulties people may be experiencing, it really is true that "the sun will come out tomorrow."

Tacoma Little Theatre keeps the positivity alive with a heartwarming tale that is perfect for the holiday season. TLT not only chose a classic story, they put together a cast that is great to watch. This cast is so good, in fact, they received a standing ovation on opening night.

The two standout (pint-sized) actors are Kennedy Miller and Julia Melchart. Miller captures the pluck of Annie beautifully with a voice that seems impossibly large for her size. Melchart (Molly) was referred to as "so cute" by an audience member. Every time she spoke or sang, there were murmurings of delight from the crowd. All of the other girls are talented as well, and the miniature actors stole the show with their singing, dancing, projection and overall energy.

Another actor who stole her scenes was Nyx - playing Sandy, Annie's mutt. The audience cooed over Nyx as much as the girls. She is well trained and Miller does a great job handling her four-legged fellow actor with extremely discreet hand signals and treats.

The adults are quite good too, each bringing their own flair to the characters. Roxanne Alexis DeVito plays the drunken Miss Hannigan to perfection, Jon Huntsman is entertainingly believable as ‘20s radio host Bert Healey, and Christopher Gilbert embodies the wealthy, workaholic Oliver Warbucks.

The costumes are great but what is most impressive from a technical perspective is the set. Brett Carr did an amazing job designing a set that is at once fabulous and practical. He uses TLT's revolving floor to allow fast set changes that are fun to watch. There are a total of 13 scenes with almost every one taking place in an entirely new setting. Each set change is flawless but it is amusing to see the set rotate and the orphans appear and disappear with their orphanage.

Though not recommended for people who despise adorable, talented little girls or musicals, Annie at Tacoma Little Theatre is recommended for everyone else.

Annie

Through Dec. 24, 7:30 p.m. Friday–Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, $22–26, discount seats $17,
Tacoma Little Theatre, 210 N. I St., Tacoma
253.272.2281