Since my eight-year-old daughter discovered the 1982 film on Netflix and then Father Christmas slipped the soundtrack under the Christmas tree the songs from Annie have been on a constant loop in our house.

So, when we got tickets to see to see this latest production of Annie at the Opera House, my standing as best dad ever and even at this early point in 2019 dad of the year was confirmed.

Full disclosure, I am not nor ever have been musical theatres biggest fan, but the joy you feel watching your offspring really thrilled and reveling in an experience like my daughter was during the show is priceless.

Tomorrow, Easy Street, You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile every song was met with a grin and mimed along with from beginning to end.

This is what Annie would call a “real classy” production, with the superb costumes, sets and choreography really enhancing the stunning high energy performances from all the cast.

My little one especially enjoyed the scenes set in Hannigan’s orphanage. The young cast playing the orphans putting in performances of such bubbling enthusiasm that it was impossible, even for me, to not enjoy their cat and mouse relationship with Anita Dobson’s Miss Hannigan.

As we drove home after the show, with the Annie soundtrack playing of course, my daughter asked if she could do drama and if she did would they do Annie?

Annie is on at the Opera House until February 16th. For tickets visit the website www.atgtickets.com/shows/annie/opera-house-manchester/