Evolve Theatrics’ ‘Annie’ is well worth attending

Evolve Theatrics has presented plays in one guise or another for 21 years. The company selects family-friendly shows that emphasize fun and familiarity, giving many children, as well as many adults, their first opportunity to be on stage or behind the scenes. 

With a long rehearsal calendar, the company arrives ready to perform. Its current take on “Annie” is heartwarming and well executed, featuring a talented theatrical family as well as triumphant returns by some long-absent veterans.  

Technical support is so smooth and seamless that it’s hardly noticeable. Evolve’s many years of production experience are obvious, as this version of Annie is well choreographed, meticulously rehearsed, beautifully voiced and well worth attending.

With a clear-as-a-bell voice, Lyla Krauss is a delight in the title role. Perfectly cast, she is a belter with impressive range, and she also hits the acting beats like a much more experienced performer than she actually is. 

Tom Youngdahl (Daddy Warbucks) returns to the stage after a hiatus, bringing good acting choices and a beautiful tenor voice. Lansing Community College acting student Lyndsey Camp (Grace) is an anchor performer and appears polished enough to pursue a career in professional theater. First-time performer Annabeth Peterson (Lily) is very funny and animated; her committed comedic performances are a highlight. 

But the scenery-chewing star of the show is Jena Beal (Miss Hannigan), who turns in a powerhouse performance. Beal leans into playing the villain and delights in presenting a fearsome and ambitious character who can be cruel and calculating while pursuing her wicked schemes.

Music director Mike Dixon has done an outstanding job preparing the cast for the rigors of performing a deceptively challenging vocal score. The singing is confident and expressive. There is also excellent diction and clarity throughout, from the youngest on up.

Bob Hill’s stage design is simple yet ingenious, featuring hand-painted interiors and exteriors by scenic artist Lynn Davis. I’m not sure if they would count as sets or props, but I particularly liked the practically lit burning barrels. 

As Evolve has evolved over 21 years, artistic director Helen Hart has always been right there. She’s on hand for performances and is attentive to customer feedback, and this dedication is a big reason for the company’s many successes.