Saguaro City Music Theatre Review: 'Annie'

If ever there were a show that was tailor made for a youth community theater, it's "Annie." The eager and able crew of Saguaro City Music Theatre infuses its talents into the upbeat, bouncy tale with infectious gusto.

Bolstered by a commanding title performance from Julia Wetzel and tempered by a grounded, authoritative turn from Christopher Younggren as Daddy Warbucks, the well-rehearsed, boisterous cast jolts life into the musical's beloved hit parade. Whether it's "Tomorrow" as a lead solo or one of its several reprises, the cynical "Little Girls" or the raucous "It's a Hard Knock Life," the radiant performance reverberates throughout the crowd, leading to toe-taps, head bops and roaring applause.

In the nearly 50 years since the show was first performed on Broadway, "Annie" spawned many a TV and film adaptation. It feels most at home, of course, as a live theatrical production, ringing with a special authenticity when the band of orphans are played from kids from around the block. Credit director Drew Humphrey for wrangling his cast of students, part-timers and volunteers into a precision machine that cranks out endless chuckles, sentiment and cheer.

"Annie" thrives on its familiarity, like a reassuring affirmation or a warm hug. When it's done right, as it is by the Saguaro Music Theatre crew, "Annie" transports you into a realm in which optimism for its own sake triumphs over any adversity, and the promise of tomorrow helps you float through the harshest times.

"Annie" plays through Jan. 4 at the Berger Performing Arts Center. Buy tickets here.