Annie, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre November 7-12

Annie fans won't leave the theatre without a smile on their face after this energetic stage production of the classic children's musical movie.

Jam-packed with feel-good favourites including Tomorrow, this show, which tells the story of little orphan Annie who finds happiness with ruthless billionaire businessman Oliver Warbucks, would defrost the coldest heart.

Eleven-year-old Megan Joyner, who shares the title role with 12-year-old Emma Hopkins, belted out her numbers with gusto but her voice lacked emotion in the more touching numbers such as Maybe. Her New York drawl and screeching delivery also made some dialogue difficult to decipher.

Best known for her portrayal of Gladys Pugh in Hi-De-Hi, Ruth Madoc was excellent as crazy old soak Miss Hannigan. Her comic timing was spot-on in Easy Street and Little Girls and her voice was ideally suited to the part.

Former Hill's Angel Louise English shone as Grace Farrell and sixties pop sensation Mark Wynter was convincing as Daddy Warbucks although his singing voice was surprisingly weak in places.

Matthew Hewitt as Rooster Hannigan and Carly Hainsby as Lily St Regis were excellent as the cruel couple who plot to claim a $50,000 cheque by pretending to be Annie's parents.

As well as the company, an excellent ensemble of dancers and singers, the orphans must also be singled out for praise.

Despite a weak start with a few bum notes and dodgy footwork, they really pulled it off in It's a Hard Knock Life and You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile.

Former Crufts winner Danny also deserves a mention as Sandy the dog. He certainly looked the part as the loveable mutt but without classics Dumb Dog and Sandy he never really got the chance to shine.

Performances take place daily until Saturday November 12 at 7.30pm.

A matinee performance will be staged at 2.30pm on Saturday.

Tickets priced £6.50 to £26.50 can be bought in person from the Lichfield Street box office or by calling 01902 42 92 12.

Natalie Driver