There’s an old theatre adage warning directors never to work with animals or children. Gateway Theatre’s Annie reminds us why audiences love it when they do. Children and animals do not just rise to the occasion. They steal the show.
From the moment the orphans take the stage, the production establishes a lively, joyful rhythm driven by youthful energy and sincerity. Led by a confident and winning performance from Annie (Azaleah Korn), the orphan ensemble sets the pace for the entire evening. This is especially evident when they launch into their second number, “Hard Knock Life,” which crackles with precision, attitude, and collective spirit. Under the direction of Josh Epstein, the production moves briskly while allowing emotional beats to land.
The orphans, portrayed by Katie Bradshaw, Elle Hanson, Azaleah Korn, Lucia Liberato, Mana Nakamura, Mela Pietropaolo, and Tegan Swain, work seamlessly as a unit while still allowing individual personalities to emerge. Among them, Elle Hanson as Molly is a particular standout. Hanson steals every scene she is in, her earnestness and emotional clarity radiating across the stage. She is a bright presence among the orphans, grounding the production with sincerity and heart.
Gateway’s attention to detail extends beyond its young cast. In partnership with the BCSPCA, the theatre brings Sandy to life with a rescue dog who instantly wins over the audience. On opening night, audible murmurs and spontaneous expressions of delight rippled through the house every time Sandy appeared. Just as Sandy captures Annie’s affection within the story, Sandy captures the audience’s as well.
The adult principals provide strong anchors for the production. Miss Hannigan (Jennifer Copping) is sharply drawn, balancing bitterness with dark humour. Grace Farrell (Charlie Gallant) brings warmth, steadiness, and compassion, while Oliver Warbucks (Charlie Gallant) is portrayed with a thoughtful arc, evolving from a self-focused billionaire into someone willing to put Annie’s happiness first.
In the adult ensemble, Nicole Stevens stands out across multiple roles, including Ensemble, Sophie, Star-to-Be, Cecille, Boylan Sister, and Ickes. Stevens commands attention whenever she appears, demonstrating sharp comic instincts and strong character work.
While Annie overflows with optimism, it remains rooted in the realities of the Great Depression. References to Franklin D. Roosevelt and the New Deal resonate today, echoing ongoing conversations about economic inequality, social supports, and corporate responsibility. In a time of division, Annie offers a reminder of the power of shared hope and collective care.
With determination and unwavering optimism, Annie escapes a harsh orphanage run by Miss Hannigan and navigates the wonders of New York City, outwitting those who seek to exploit her and finding belonging in an unexpected family that includes Oliver Warbucks, Grace Farrell, and a scrappy dog named Sandy. The show’s anthem, “Tomorrow,” carries that message forward, promising brighter days ahead.
The production concludes with a joyful Christmas celebration, and as voices rise together, the message lands with quiet assurance. The sun will come out tomorrow. Annie remains a gift of a story, one that leaves audiences uplifted and reminded of the enduring power of hope.
Verdict: A polished, heart-forward holiday production that blends strong young performers, thoughtful direction, and timely themes into a warmly uplifting night at the theatre.
Gateway Theatre’s Annie runs from December 11, 2025 to January 3, 2026 at the Gateway Theatre.
