YOU can tell Craig Revel Horwood loves playing the role of Miss Hannigan, writes Terry Canty.

The Strictly Come Dancing judge, whose comments and critiques contestants dread every week on television, proved fantastic as the wicked orphanage matron in Annie, at Venue Cymru.

Take acerbic and withering put-downs combined with a cold and unfeeling nature, over the top attitude, resembling the late Joan Rivers, and you have Horwood’s fabulous Miss Hannigan, delivered in a distinctive nasal New York accent.

Contrast this with sweet natured orphan Annie played by the wonderfully talented Taziva-Faye Katsande, whose pitch perfect performances of Maybe and Tomorrow, complete with appearance by Sandy, portrayed by Amber the Dog, tugged on the Llandudno audience’s heartstrings on Tuesday evening.

Annie’s frustration at her predicament and that of her fellow orphans was illustrated during Hard Knock Life to great effect, and again in Hooverville, with the addition of stunning lighting and set design, transporting us to depression era New York.

When Annie is invited by Grace Farrell, played by the warm-hearted and elegant Carolyn Maitland, to spend the festive holidays with billionaire Daddy Warbucks, portrayed by the authoritative Alex Bourne, Hannigan’s resentment boils over.

Warbucks and Annie’s colourful cinema trip, with a wonderful tribute to On The Town, and Hannigan’s trio with her conniving criminal minded brother Rooster (Richard Meek) and accomplice Lilly - portrayed by Jenny Gayner - on Easy Street prove standout sequences during this production and offer a chance to glimpse Horwood’s dance moves.

Other notable performances come from Michael Anderson as the NBC producer, Andy Barke as Drake and Gary Davis as Franklin Roosevelt.

Catch this musical theatre masterclass at Venue Cymru until May 18 by calling the box office on 01492 872000 or www.venuecymru.co.uk