‘Annie Live!’ review: NBC’s musical was a bit overworked but mostly delivered a good night
Having a crowd that actually watched the show helped overcome one of the poor points of this format over the past decade, mounting some memorable shows but struggling to capture the unique qualities of the setting. live.
On the other hand, the audience (who is a suspect with a coaching degree) sounded a little too appreciative and enthusiastic, clapping in numbers and going on as if this “Annie” was really a better show than it is right now. in.
It should also be noted that the top priority remains to present these musicals as a television show, allowing cameras to swoop in and around the performers to provide a close-up view. That way, even the best seat in the house is sometimes obscured so those at home can get a close-up view of the stars.
Quibbles aside, the show boasts considerable talent, with young Celina Smith completely filling the title role after a somewhat shaky start, flanked by Harry Connick Jr. as Daddy Warbucks, the billionaire adopting an orphan determined to sing “Tomorrow,” the show’s signature, and some truly memorable, about every 15 minutes.
Taraji P. Henson also joins the cast as Miss Hannigan, the ruthless orphanage owner, with Tituss Burgess and Megan Hilty adding flair to the stage as her brother and his girlfriend. , who try to derail Annie’s adoption.
The recession-era theme explains a much-delighted moment, in which Warbucks talked about taking Annie to see a musical, adding, “I’m glad to see Broadway standing again. despite the tough times.” After a year of New York theaters closing, the applause felt more spontaneous than anything else on the TV show.
Additionally, “Annie” benefits from its sheer unpretentiousness, offering a can’t-miss (or at least completely miss) combination of cute kids, virtuoso dance moves, and more. , a little girl with a loud voice, a signature red dress and of course a very well trained dog that shows up just long enough to make everyone swoon.
Sure, the story could be set during the Depression, but the warts of “Annie Live!,” and all, provided a little ray of sunshine towards the holidays – which tomorrow has Probably will be forgotten, but good enough for tonight.
