The next big event at Ebrington's Vital Venue in Derry-Londonderry is fast approaching. Si's Sights And Sounds offers five reasons why you should go and see the Londonderry Musical Society's production of "Annie"
You'll get to see and enjoy a show in the small but massive Vital Venue
Don’t be fooled by the slightly unflattering exterior – Ebrington's pride and joy only looks like a tent with a bit of colour splashed around it. Inside, it feels like an internationally renowned cultural arena, a cauldron of excitement brought to life by whoever is performing on stage. At best, its atmosphere feels worthy of any concert or theatrical venue in the world. Those who experienced the memorable Sons And Daughters extravaganza, the indelible kinetics of Political Mother or the intimate, welcoming energy of Primal Scream, not to mention the music of John Williams, can and will vouch for this. "Annie" is a community event in every sense of the word, another chance for the populace of Derry-Londonderry to "come together as one" as a certain Bobby Gillespie might say.
It is a hugely popular show, with lots of famous tunes and a good story
As Dominic Kearney pointed out recently in a piece for Culture Northern Ireland, the "Annie" bug is contagious at present. It's spreading throughout the city. And why shouldn't it be? The recent successful bid to break the World Record for the largest song and dance routine was built on not only the strength of the community, but also the strength of the show itself. Tunes such as "Maybe", "It's A Hard Knock Life" and "The Sun'll Come Out Tomorrow" have earned their place in musical history, as has the spirited and heart-warming nature of the musical's take on the traditional "rags-to-riches" narrative that everyone is so familiar with.
The crew are a bunch of professionals, dedicated to making your experience a memorable one
Director Deigh Reid, choreographer Venessa Chapman, musical director Jim Goodman and accompanist Ben McGonigle are among a handful of committed crew members that helped make last year's Londonderry Musical Society (LMS) Production of "The King And I" such an enjoyable, award-winning show. All four return this year along with new stage manager Caroline Gilliland, whose literally Legenderry experience with Bang On The Door and her own business could help inspire everyone backstage a step further.
Annie herself is a national star
In Lauryn Mulholland, the LMS have found an Annie with music in her blood. At the age of just fourteen, Buncrana-based Mulholland has sung the national anthem at the Donegal v Down match in Ballybofey and competed in the finals of the Childline All Ireland School Talent Search Competition. Recently, she told the Inish Times that getting the part of Annie ranked at the top of those achievements. Click here to watch her sing at the Helix in Dublin.
The talent of the whole cast is beyond reproach
Whether you choose to focus on Muire McCallion wailing about her "Little Girls", the graceful vocals of Katie Patton's similarly named character, the spirit of the award-winning Kate McCafferty's Molly, or the scene-stealing of the likes of Kris Doherty's Daddy Warbucks, David Keown's Rooster or Aoibheann Biddle's Lily, to name but a few, there really is something for everyone to watch here. And with an extraordinarily dedicated cast of all ages behind them, ready to sing their hearts out for the City Of Culture, we truly could be in for something special.
The Londonderry Musical Society's production of Annie takes place on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 April. Book your tickets online at www.millenniumforum.co.uk.
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