Annie

One of America’s favorite little girls from a film or play has to be Annie. This adorable orphan played by Aileen Quinn is a creative and tough little redhead who wants desperately to get out of the orphanage, find her parents, and have a real life. She is in constant trouble with the orphanage’s tyrannical ruler, Miss Hannigan, played by Carol Burnett. Despite her various escape attempts, she always winds back up in the orphanage. Until one day, the secretary of billionaire Oliver Warbucks (Ann Reinking) arrives and takes Annie away from the orphanage to spend a week in Mr. Warbucks’ mansion. Annie’s immense gratitude and charisma help work her way into the hearts of everyone at the mansion, including “Daddy” Warbucks (Albert Finney). Despite his heartfelt desire to adopt her, Daddy Warbucks instead helps Annie search for her real parents. Unfortunately, they are unaware of a nefarious scheme by Miss Hannigan, her brother, and his girlfriend to kidnap Annie for the reward money. Rooster and Lily (Bernadette Peters) dress down and convince Mr. Warbucks that they are Annie parents by the other half of Annie’s locket they have. Their plan appears to be a complete success until some of Annie’s orphan friends reach Mr. Warbucks. They reveal the evil plan and a rescue party is launched. Finally, Annie is saved, the bad guys are caught by the police, and everyone returns home. Annie learns of her parents’ death and then happily agrees to become Daddy Warbucks’ little girl. This movie is a classic musical that is sure to be watched for years to come.

My favorite songs in this musical are “It’s a Hard Knock Life”, “I Think I’m Gonna Like It Here”, “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile”, and “Easy Street”. I think everyone has seen this movie but if you haven’t, be sure to check it out. Look for the 1982 version and not the Disney remake. Enjoy!