For a young girl living a “hard knock life” in a orphanage, things may seem pretty bad – especially at Christmas. But feisty Annie (Alicia Morton) carries a song in her heart and hope in her locket – the only thing she has from her parents. One day, fed up with the dastardly Miss Hannigan (Kathy Bates), Annie escapes the run-down orphanage determined to find her parents. Unfortunately, she is captured and taken back to Miss Hannigan. Another escape is offered her in the form of a Christmas visit to the mansion of Oliver Warbucks, the richest man in the world (Victor Garber). Once together, Annie and “Daddy” Warbucks find what they have been missing in their separate lives: love. Will they be allowed to stay together or will Miss Hannigan succeed in separating them once again? At first glance this 1999 made-for-television production might seem to be a carbon copy of the 1982 movie starring Albert Finney and Carol Burnett, but a closer look shows us a brand new production filled with wonderful songs and sparkling dance numbers. The characters of Miss Hannigan and Oliver Warbucks are played more true to life. Warbucks, in particular, becomes a real person instead of a cartoon character. Miss Hannigan, as well, is not the booze-swilling, child-terrorizing, yet entertaining caricature so deliciously played by Carol Burnett. You find yourself actually liking Miss Hannigan. This production is also less frightening than the original, which makes it better for younger viewers. As an added treat, this production showcases Andrea McArdle, a wonderful singer even as Anne Reinking beautifully danced her way through the 1982 Annie, singing “NYC.” This Annie brings a heartwarming story to a new generation.
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