Annie at the Forest is a Delight

By Susan Goldbeck

Pacific Repertory Theater’s production of the Tony- award winning musical, Annie, at the Forrest Theater in Carmel, is another home- run in the long line of first- rate musical productions it has stage at this historic venue . It is a show that has many great tunes and a charming story line. Annie is a show that delivers for all ages. And, the family picnic atmosphere at this outdoor theater is a treat in and of itself. It’s mostly a local crowd, but out- of- towners will enjoy it too. One audience member was serving hot soup to his family and to anyone else that wanted some. It was a bit chilly as usual but the crowd were warmly dressed and brought blankets.

Caden Devlin as Annie, JT Holmstrom as Daddy Warbuck

Caden Devlin, (Veronica Peters,) as Annie, leads a large cast of nearly fifty. She charmed the audience from her first appearance on the stage. She has an excellent, powerful, voice, that makes you wonder how it comes out of such a little girl. This was opening night, yet she was always confident and in control.

J.T. Holmstrom, who played Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks, also turned in a stellar performance. He managed to achieve just the right balance so not to overpower young Annie when he appeared with her. He has a strong, wonderful, voice and his acting ability was top- notch. Most of the ensemble cast was the orphans made up of local children who seemed to thoroughly enjoy what was for many of them, their first time on stage. In the convivial atmosphere at the theater, it was fun watching these kids having a life experience they will likely never forget. They sang and danced very well, and this is notable because d some of them seemed like they were about five years old.

Christiana Meeks as Lily, Jennifer Newman as Miss Hannigan, Kyle Richlin as Rooster

The entire cast was wonderful. Special mention is due Jennifer Newman, who played Miss

Hannigan, the whiskey- sneaking, man- hunting matron at the orphanage where Annie lived. She was very funny, and could sing and dance well. As one of the antagonists in the show, she added a sprinkle of pathos in her performance as women stuck in an unhappy life she couldn’t seem to break free from. This gave her character some dimension and made the audience have some empathy for her.

Kudos to the costume designer Ziona Goren who enhanced each cast member’s character . The orphans numbered in the twenties, yet each appeared very much an individual with clever tweaking of each costume. The kids were impressive. Kudos also to Palmer Davis for the amazing job of moving such a large cast through the many lively dance numbers.

The overall experience of Annie and the Forrest Theater itself was delightful indeed, and even

though,”.. the sun will come up tomorrow…” Annie will not appear after September 21, when the show closes. Don’t miss it.