The Ringwald Theatre’s ‘Annie’ Brings the Sunshine!
I can’t count the number of times that I’ve seen the film Annie. Growing up, it was the Carol Burnett VHS that was played so frequently that it was starting to wear itself out. However, as I grew older, numerous different versions of the story of Little Orphan Annie appeared on my television screen, each with a unique perspective on the classic tale. And yet, with the many times I’ve seen Annie play out, I’ve never witnessed it the way it’s truly supposed to be enjoyed; on the stage. However, the Ringwald Theatre in Ferndale, Michigan, has finally given me the gift of experiencing the wonder of this classic musical.
Remaining true to the original production, with a book by Thomas Meehan, music by Charles Strouse, and lyrics by Martin Charnin, the Ringwald’s Annie examines the story through a new lens. Director Joe Bailey strips the show down, exposing the narrative’s beauty by shining a light on the cast and creatives involved. With a cast of 12 adults and the music direction of Rachael L. Rose, the optimism that is inherent in Annie glows with a brilliance that can’t be dulled. The sun may come out tomorrow, but the Ringwald Theatre brings wonder and hope to the stage today.
[Warning: Spoilers from The Ringwald Theatre’s Annie are below!]
The story of Annie remains strong in this Ringwald Theatre production
Perhaps one of the most impressive aspects of Annie is that it doesn’t take much to make it special, something that the Ringwald understood perfectly. At the core of this production, the story is the same narrative I’ve come to expect every time I put on the musical. Annie (Lily Czartorski) is an orphan who dreams of finding her parents one day. Armed with a letter and a locket, Annie’s brimming with optimism that one day they’ll return for her, saving her from the terrible life she’s currently living.
Growing up with the other children in the orphanage wouldn’t be so bad if it weren’t for the horrible Miss. Hannigan (Joe Bailey) who treats the kids as servants and paychecks. She’s the definition of awful; however, Annie doesn’t let the mean lady get to her. Instead, she uses her plucky personality to push forth with her mission to reunite with her parents one day.
Fate, on the other hand, has something else in store for the orphan, as Grace (Vince Kelley) arrives one day asking to take Annie to stay with Daddy Warbucks (Brandy Joe Plambeck) for the holiday season. Reluctant as he might be to welcome a child into his busy life, Daddy Warbucks forms a bond with Annie unlike any other. A bond that is tested in more ways than one, as his only wish after meeting the orphan is for her to find happiness.
A stripped-back show shines a light on the talent involved in Annie
The Ringwald Theatre opted for a minimalist approach to bringing Annie to life, as elaborate sets, flashy lighting, and sound aren’t utilized in this production. For some, this simple design might seem like it’s lacking; however, this approach is genius as it truly allows what makes Annie great to rise to the surface.
Yes, Daddy Warbucks is perhaps the richest man in the world, living in a dazzling mansion; although what necessitates the need for a grand set to convey this? Annie, at its core, is about people and the relationships that develop between them. It’s about having faith that a better day is around the corner, a sentiment that’s echoed throughout both the story and the music. Because of this, what is truly essential for an excellent performance of Annie is a strong cast that understands the message within the story, which The Ringwald does.
Lily Czartorski shines as the titular character, bringing innocence and exuberant energy to the role. Czartorski feels so comfortable on the stage, making Annie all the more realistic through a genuine excitement to share her talent with those present to witness greatness. Annie’s one of those characters that you can’t help but love due to her optimism and joy; however, Czartorski added another layer, which made the audience smile from ear to ear.
And where would any production of Annie be without Daddy Warbucks? Brandy Joe Plambeck brings a sincerity to the role, which is quite the feat with a character such as Warbucks. Many times, especially early in the musical, Daddy Warbucks can come off cold and callous, which is understandable. He’s a businessman who is changing the world with each phone call and handshake. However, Plambeck humanizes the larger-than-life character, bringing another side of Warbucks that you don’t see all that often.
However, the highlight of the show is Joe Bailey, who pulls double duty as both director and Miss. Hannigan. Never afraid of laying it all out on the table, Bailey steals the show as the catty Hannigan, who is looking for an easy street on which to catch a break. Bailey brings a healthy dose of laughter to the show, easily improvising a look or a line that catches both the audience and fellow cast members off guard, sending everyone into hysterical giggles. His craft is unlike anyone else I know, and it’s a privilege to see him bring the iconic Miss. Hannigan to life.
The Ringwald’s dedication to theatre makes Annie an incredible performance
Having grown up on films of all of the greats, it’s always interesting to see them on stage. So many people have a specific image of what the show is or should be, so that if it’s anything different, it can throw them off. What I’ve always loved about The Ringwald is that they push the boundaries of what you can expect from theater, flipping those expectations completely. They take gambles, which always leave me in awe. Annie continues that, with a performance that is so real and raw because it focuses on the actors and their craft instead of flashy gimmicks. This group is undeniably talented, from those on the stage to the lighting and music. The Ringwald’s Annie reminds us how important it is to look towards the light of tomorrow and the hope that comes with it.
While Annie may have left The Ringwald, other exciting shows are coming to the theatre, such as Silver Foxes and the return of the Ringwald Reprise with a production of Hair!
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