THE production of Annie, being staged this week in Malvern, is delightful family entertainment.

Set in a New York orphanage, the female orphans are pupils of Malvern's Cecilia Hall Dance Centre. Wearing faded dresses, their performances were convincing as they acted, danced and sang with immense theatrical presence.

On the opening night Annie was played by 11-year-old Emma Hopkins. She characterised superbly, singing and moving as if a veteran of the theatre. Helped by Sandy, the dog she befriended, Annie completely endeared herself to the audience by the end of the show.

Su Pollard was outrageous as Miss Hannigan, intent on frightening the girls into submission. She dressed eccentrically and behaved appallingly, rarely without a drink to hand! It was a bizarre and diverting portrayal.

James Smillie, as Oliver Warbucks, a charismatic billionaire magnate, used his fine voice effectively and showed much tenderness towards Annie. Eventually he became betrothed to kind and beautiful Grace Farrell, performed by Louise English.

Several smaller cameo roles were finely conceived, notably that of Drake, played by Michael Morgan.

Choreography was slick and changes of pace were expedient. Short snatches of dance were woven into scenes, such as when a crowd gathered outside the Roxy, and as Annie sang with the Orphans Maybe. Her singing of Tomorrow to FDR and his cabinet was managed with much skill.

Occasionally the orchestra was too loud for voices to be heard clearly.

Scenes of the interior of Warbuck's magnificent home, exquisite dresses for Grace, 'greyness' of costuming for the cabinet and effective lighting all contributed to make this a memorable production.

JILL HOPKINS