Annie is a hit in NOWMADS latest production

Since its inception in 1979, the Kimberley based NOWMADS (Nottingham West Music and Drama Society), has made giant strides and its latest production, a magnificent interpretation of the heart-warming musical Annie made a lasting impression.

Show-stopping performances by dynamic leading “lady”,10-year-old Mia Hardy, making her NOWMADS debut, and a revelation as the outspoken orphan Annie, laid the foundation stones for success.

While Mia was undoubtedly the shining star, superb performances from Hannah Lishman,a teacher at Bulwell’s Hempshill Hall Primary, as the inebriated orphanage tyrant Miss Hannigan, and the immense contributions of Daniel De Martino in the role of Oliver Warbucks, the all-powerful billionaire with a heart of gold, were to be admired.

Alison Reeve, a delight as Warbucks’ faithful secretary Grace Farrell, Tom Bailey and Rachel Charlton, well cast as the conniving fortune hunters Rooster and Lily were additional aces in the NOWMADS pack, not to mention the presence of canine star Missy, who added reality to proceedings.

The exuberance of a youthful cast, the contributions of an accomplished orchestra conducted by John Wilson, and terrific teamwork under the direction of the inspirational Rosemary Lishman, who is the business manager at Hempshill Hall Primary, were admirable ingredients.

Sumptuous costumes, slick scene changes and an appealing score,with brilliantly sung renditions of Easy Street, The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow, Maybe, Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile, and Little Girls, added to the enjoyment of this magnificent show.

A special word of praise for the girls playing orphans alongside Annie, take a bow Lucy and Emily Coulter, Emma Dougherty, Isabel Kendall, Abigail Harvey, Nicole Horsley, Holly Hipkiss, Hannah Lovett, Helena Harrison and Imogen Clarke. Their progress since taking on the roles months ago, has been immense and they shone with their exuberance, stage presence and individual talents.

It was good to see the likes of David Hale and Paula Quigley playing their parts well in the chorus, they are best remembered as leading lights with Hucknall Operatic Society,

Kathy Taylor who lives in Bulwell, Luke Tantum another teacher at Hempshill Hall Primary, and former Hucknall resident Martin Belcher are all part of NOWMADS success story.

Set in 1930s New York at the time of the Great Depression this awesome production, one of NOWMADS best ever shows, will long be remembered for the stunning talents of Nuthall schoolgirl Mia Hardy who is destined to shine at a higher level......Bravo one and all !

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