Review: Annie Get Your Gun - Liverpool Empire Theatre

The six month UK tour of the Tony award-winning show “Annie Get Your Gun” reached the stage of the Liverpool Empire last night. Tuesday 5^th August was press night and I was excited to see how the musical based on the true story of sharpshooter Annie Oakley would pan out.

With its simple but effective set which consisted of drapes and a screen in the background projecting an outdoor view, the scene was set adequately for a 19^th Century Western themed extravaganza. With the band on either side of the stage, it was clear from the outset that the musical score was going to set the tone of the musical beautifully.

The romance that ensued with rival marksman Frank Butler as played by 80’s actor and pop-star Jason Donovan was predictable but wonderfully performed. You could not help but be endeared to the protagonists. It was a convincing love story with Emma Williams and Donovan putting in a stunning performance both lyrically and dramatically.

Act one opens with “There’s no business like show business” – an energetic, colorful entrée to the show. Donovan arrived on stage looking very dapper. The costumes were fantastic, corseted dresses with bustiers for the female cast and tailored suits for the males.

Annie Oakley was feisty, courageous and sensitive and Williams shows the three dimensional aspects of her character magnificently. It is wonderful to see the transformation that Annie undergoes.

The American accents by all were extremely convincing and the humour consistent but not overdone. When Annie refers to Frank as a “Big swollen headed stiff”, you can’t help but laugh.

I was extremely impressed with both Donovan and Williams’ delivery. The fantastic vocals, dancing and brilliant acting by both performers is worthy of praise. I particularly enjoyed the dance numbers and Williams performance of the longest note in “Anything You can do I can do better” was superb.

Buffallo Bill, played by Norman Pace proved a brilliant narrator as well as being the proprietor of Buffallo Bill’s Wild West circus.

Director, Ian Talbot OBE has done a great job here. Annie Get your Gun travels around the UK until 4^th October. It will remain at the Empire until Saturday 9^th August. For information and tickets go to www.anniegetyourgunthemusical.com

It is a must see!