Foster’s inspired direction has moved the piece away from its traditional staging, working with designer Colin Richmond to create a stylized world that pays more than a passing nod to the tales’ original comic strip origin. Jigsaw pieces, mirrored in Ben Cracknell’s lighting plot, frame the stage to highlight Annie’s fractured history but also give the piece a vibrancy and sense of place.

THE PUBLIC REVIEWS

The lighting by Ben Cracknell is very good indeed and adds immeasurably to the enjoyment of the production.

BRITISH THEATRE.COM

The staging and lighting effects are top notch, with scene changes handled smoothly and barely noticeable. The scene in which Annie goes to the movies is incredibly creative, with hints of George Gershwin’s ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ and a group of sailors dancing, so as to hint at the film they are watching. Ben Cracknell’s lighting design is fluid and progresses the story well. Particular appreciation is paid to his representation of snow within the auditorium.

REVIEWS HUB

The set was cleverly lit by Ben Cracknell who managed to transport us from the dark and miserable orphanage to the bright and sparkling mansion of Daddy Warbucks, with the flick of a switch.

GSCENE