Mossley’s Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society delivers another stellar production with young Sylvie Hoyle leading the cast in a memorable rendition of ‘Annie’
Mossley must be very proud of their Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society. They repeatedly produce top class shows and their latest production, Annie, which runs until Saturday, May 3 at the George Lawton Hall, is no exception.
Led by rising star, eleven-year-old Sylvie Hoyle in the title role, this show is exciting and beautifully performed. Sylvie sings sweetly when needed but can also play the sassy side of Annie when required. Performing alongside her Mum Laura, who plays Grace, must be a challenge for both of them but they never dropped out of character, even though Mum must be very tempted to beam with pride throughout her performance.
Nick Ward and Molly Griffiths bring Rooster and Lily to life perfectly. I loved their chemistry and totally believable portrayal of the opportunists who try to cash in on Annie, when the character Warbucks offers a reward for finding her real parents. John Wood, as Warbucks, had great balance in his performance, showing the rich business owner change into the empathetic wannabe adoptive father. His singing voice was excellent.
I think I counted around sixteen orphans within the talented ensemble. Their energy, dancing and singing lifted the packed-out theatre every time they appeared on stage. I looked around the auditorium, as I was sat on the side of the floor, in this expansive production, and the audience were grinning from ear to ear every time they bounced onto stage.
If you’re lucky enough to go and see this show, look out for Sonny the dog. Young Sylvie sang while Sonny, for the main, stood and appreciated her talent. It must have been quite an experience for the dog. Maybe he’s got a professional career to look forward to, but even if he hasn’t, I feel certain we’ll see Sylvie’s career soaring in the future. As the song says, “Tomorrow, tomorrow, I love you tomorrow, you’re always a day away.”
Annie by MAODS is at Mossley’s George Lawton Hall until Saturday, May 3. Tickets are available here: www.ticketsource.co.uk/mossleyaods