There are certain productions that remind us why theatre has such a lasting impact, and Stratford Festival’s Annie is one of them. This beloved musical about optimism, resilience, and hope swept the audience into its world with energy, precision, and heart. Seeing it live, I was fully transported to the bustling streets of New York City and thoroughly impressed by the show’s incredible ensemble, talented cast, and seamless storytelling.
Written by
Santina Francesca
in
Spotlight
Performing arts
Stratford Festival’s Annie: Thoughtful Storytelling in a Beloved Classic
From the lead roles to every ensemble member, this cast was absolutely stellar. Each performer brought depth, energy, and nuance to their characters, making the story feel vivid and alive. Notably, the way the ensemble flowed seamlessly through transitions and dance numbers is a testament to the chemistry and level of professionalism this cast has developed. Every movement, every beat, and every interaction felt intentional, creating a cohesive and immersive theatrical experience.
The kiddos…wow. Of course it wouldn’t be Annie without the young performers, and these kids were the heart of the production. Their precision in movement was incredibly impressive, and all of their technical elements, timing, choreography, and vocal performance, were executed flawlessly, making “Hard Knock Life” one of my favourite songs of the show. Beyond technique, their commitment to storytelling shone through in every scene, bringing humour, charm, and authenticity to the stage. Watching them work together to tell the story was a reminder of just how much young talent exists in Canadian theatre right now.
What makes Annie endure is its message of hope in the face of hardship—a theme that feels as timely as ever. This Stratford Festival production leaned into that optimism, using technical elements such as projections to help establish the bustling streets of New York City, while the costume and lighting design transported audiences into the story’s world. Every detail, from set pieces to props, felt deliberate and thoughtfully crafted, enhancing the performances and making the production feel immersive and alive. The combination of these elements created a fully realized theatrical experience that perfectly complemented the cast’s energy and storytelling.
Stratford Festival is known for its world-class productions, and this Annie further proves why it remains a cornerstone of Canadian theatre. Whether you’re a lifelong theatre-goer or someone seeing Annie for the first time, this production reminds us of the power of live performance to connect, inspire, and move us.
Annie’s run at the Stratford Festival has been extended to December 14th, 2025. That means there’s even more opportunity for audiences to experience this joyful and uplifting production. If you haven’t grabbed your tickets yet, now’s the time, you’ll want to see this heartwarming story brought to life by such an extraordinary cast.
