I WAS a big fan of Annie growing up.

I watched the film too many times to count and even embarked on a few theatre trips to see it.

So after hearing it was coming to Manchester Opera House, you could bet your bottom dollar that I was going to be heading down the road to watch it.

Especially with Strictly Come Dancing’s Craig Revel-Horwood playing the role of Miss Hannigan.

And the production certainly didn’t disappoint, managing to keep the magic of Annie all these years later.

It was jampacked with song and dance performed by an incredibly talented cast and orchestra.

The smash-hit West End production of Annie is in Manchester for just two weeks only.

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Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage.

Her luck soon changes when she's chosen to spend a fairytale Christmas with famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks.

Meanwhile, spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search for her true family.

From beginning to end, the show was nothing but entertaining and upbeat with electrifying choreography, brilliant renditions of smash hits including Tomorrow and It’s the Hard Knock Life, a great set, and convincing acting.

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The whole cast is what really makes this production special though.

Craig Revel-Horwood had the audience in the palm of his hand and although it is difficult to stand out next to someone like him, Sharangi Gnanavarathan, who played the part of Annie, did just this.

She put on an incredible performance and it was no surprise when she received a standing ovation at the end.

So if you fancy a real feel-good performance that will leave you with a smile on your face, Annie is the show for you.

It is at Manchester Opera House until Saturday, September 30.

Tickets are available from £13.00.

Visit here for tickets.

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