IF heart-warming rags-to-riches tales are your cup of tea the all-time classic Annie might be the musical to get your toes tapping and heart thumping.

One of the best-loved musicals of all time, Annie tells the story of an 11-year-old orphan in New York City during the Depression.

By a stroke of luck she gets invited to stay at billionaire Oliver Warbuck’s mansion and the pair form an unlikely bond.

The businessman sets about helping Annie find her parents, with half a locket and a tattered old note as the only clues.

This charming tale of friendship and love has regularly been portrayed in many different productions over the years to an excellent standard and this latest showstopper is no exception.

Currently touring around the country, this new production stopped off last week at The Broadway Theatre, Peterborough, for a five-night-run.

Starring former Hi-de-Hi actress Su Pollard as Miss Hannigan, the cruel, drunk orphanage owner, and David McAlister as Oliver Warbucks, this lively and thoroughly entertaining show was certainly well received by the audience.

Su’s excellent portrayal of Miss Hannigan, staggering across the stage taking dramatic sips from a bottle, was more humorous than nasty tyrant and got many laughs and claps from an amused audience.

The young actress in the title role shone on stage, perfecting a crisp American accent, clear, strong singing voice and the correct mixture of innocence and cheekiness to portray an orphan who never gives up hope.

And we shouldn’t forget the furry character who also received an enthusiastic response from theatregoers — the canine star cast as Sandy, the homeless dog found by Annie.

This new national production brings the timeless musical to a new generation; Annie is a delightful theatrical experience for young and old alike.

If you’ve already seen Annie you’ll be left humming the tunes to famous songs Tomorrow, Hard Knock Life, and Easy Street.

If you haven’t yet seen it what are you waiting for?

KELLY FELSTEAD