“Annie” Wows OKC
The sun may come out tomorrow, but the stars will certainly be out each night through December 14 at the Poteet Theatre in Oklahoma City with a stellar production of “Annie”. Director Shawna Linck has taken advantage of some of the great students and talent in the area and gives opportunity to two great casts with the younger set. The Red Cast and the White Cast play alternately, and while this review speaks to the performance given by the Red Cast, word has it that the White Cast is just as fantastic.
The Red Cast title role is beautifully handled by Meg Linck. Linck’s exhibits a sound degree of professionalism as well as dedication to the craft. Add to that outstanding talent and Annie comes to life in “Annie”. She is a joy to watch.
The role of Daddy Warbucks in all cases is well handled by Cordell Jordan. While Jordan seems slightly overwhelmed and disconnected in his initial scenes, W. C. Fields did remind us not to play opposite children and dogs. Yet Jordan overcomes the handicap with aplomb and an easy going and lovely rapport develops between Daddy Warbucks and Annie due to his confidence and effort.
While the cast is far too large to compliment every member individually whether they are ensemble players or in supporting roles, suffice it to say that each cast member approaches their performance with a degree of confidence and dedication to rival Broadway productions. However, certain stand out performances deserve special mention. First of all, Miss Hannigan is the woman we love to hate in this production and Jessica Sigman brings an intense enthusiasm and integrity to the role of a woman with no integrity and less enthusiasm.
Kristen Jackson is a superb Grace Farrell, secretary to billionaire Warbucks. Her voice is clear and crystal. She bridges the scenes between the orphanage and the mansion beautifully. Other notably excellent performances are found in Chris Harris as Frances, Randall Hunter as Drake, Jennie Linck as Annette, Heather Newby, rising starlet, Bryan Whorton as Rooster, Christy Smith as Lily, Jack Nortz as Bundles and Patrick McGinnis as F. D. R.
Once again, the room is not large enough to recognize all the outstanding performers of all ages who deserve recognition and applause. Room must also be left for the room itself, or set. Director Shawna Linck designed a beautiful set for this production. Costumers Jenifer Dear-Mayo and Jay Prock created beautiful costumes with many of them provided by Jeffrey Meek & Lyric Theatre of OKC. The authenticity created by the creative efforts of the team under Linck’s direction provides an excellent foundation for the cast to perform competently and confidently. They are all stars to be.
Oh, and W. C. is agitating. Don’t forget that the Linck family also debuts Henry Linck as Sandy the Dog. He does very well and wags his tail with enthusiasm for well-deserved applause.
“Annie” plays through December 14 at the Poteet Theatre located at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. The address is 222 N.W. 15th Street in Oklahoma City. For ticket information visit www.poteettheatre.com or call 405-609-1023. Call soon as this show is likely to be sold out quickly!
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