Review: Annie Get Your Gun, Crucible

Anna Jane was made to play this role, as her co-star Ben Lewis said in an interview.

She clearly loves playing the sassy tomboy who discovers showbusiness and love on joining Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show.

She romps through upbeat songs like You Can’t Get a Man With a Gun, Doin’ What Comes Naturally and ballads alike.

Ben Lewis, playing her rival sharpshooter and love interest Frank Butler, gets the show off to a great start singing There’s No Business Like Showbusiness solo. his polished performance is impressive.

Maggie Service makes the most of her role as Frank’s jealous and racist assistant.

The ensemble add vibrant energy to the big song and dance numbers but there were missed steps and wardrobe malfunctions.

Alistair David’s classy choreography is a joy to watch and Laura Hopkins’ clever and versatile set works a treat.

This show never reaches the dizzy heights hit by previous Crucible musicals like Oliver! and Showboat but on the whole it is enjoyable, although some of the songs are too long.