Though my exposure to Annie was way back in the ‘80s, I knew every song – and believe me when I say, I had no idea that I already knew every song to this show. It was such an unexpected delight to hear those songs from my childhood again, so expertly presented by the vocal powerhouses on stage.

When the talented kids of the Annie cast started singing “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” a woman across the aisle from me let out an audible gasp, smiled broadly, and started dancing in her seat while she mouthed the words to the song. For some of us, “Annie” is the soundtrack to our childhood, even if we don’t realize it.

Ellie Pulsifer shines in the role of Annie. I don’t suppose a young actor gets that role unless they have massive talent. She did an impressive job presenting Annie as a feisty, yet vulnerable, orphan that the audience immediately wanted to save.

Bronte Harrison is another young actor that should be mentioned here. Once an orphan in real life, Harrison’s portrayal of Molly was touching and playful.

Speaking of those adopted, mention must be made of Addison, the dog playing Sandy. This sweet rescue pup was arguably the biggest hit on stage, receiving the loudest applause and instilling sheer delight in the crowd whenever she stepped on stage.

Julia Nicole Hunter, in the role of Grace Farrell, has a gorgeous soprano voice reminiscent of the great Julie Andrews in her prime. The rest of the cast offered entertaining performances on a versatile performance set that kept the show moving along swiftly.

This is a show you can take your kids to and be confident they’ll enjoy it. The Orpheum staff stood at the ready to hand out booster chairs for smaller patrons as the doors opened, eagerly welcoming in the next generation of theatre lovers.

Annie is at the Orpheum Theater November 8-13. Get tickets at o-pa.org.

Show is 2 hours, 45 minutes and includes one intermission.