The much-loved musical Annie bursts onto the Brisbane stage with heart, humour and unforgettable songs at the QPAC Lyric Theatre.
The Brisbane Travel Guide acknowledges the Turrbal and Yuggera people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which QPAC is situated. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.
Brisbane is embracing a dose of timeless musical magic this Summer as Annie takes to the stage at the QPAC Lyric Theatre, bringing with it big songs, boundless optimism, and a story that’s captured hearts for generations.
We headed along to see how this much-loved classic translates for today’s audiences — and from the moment the curtain rises, Annie delivers pure feel-good theatre, packed with charm, warmth, and just the right mix of nostalgia and modern sparkle.
We were paying customers at Annie The Musical, so you can rest assured that our review is 100% unbiased.
All images of Annie used in this article are credited to Daniel Boud.
This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to our disclaimer here for more information.
The Show
Annie brings one of musical theatre’s most enduring stories to life in a bright, heartfelt production that captures the spirit, optimism, and sheer joy that have made it a favourite for generations.
Set in 1930s New York during the Great Depression, the story follows Annie, a plucky orphan with an unbreakable sense of hope, whose life changes when she’s invited to spend Christmas at the home of billionaire Oliver Warbucks.
What begins as a short holiday visit soon becomes a journey of belonging, generosity, and the belief that even in the toughest times, the sun will come out tomorrow.
This stage production stays true to the heart of the original, delivering all the moments audiences know and love. Iconic songs like Tomorrow, It’s the Hard Knock Life, and Maybe are woven seamlessly into the storytelling, sparking nostalgia while still feeling fresh and relevant.
Visually engaging and full of life, the production features spirited choreography, clever staging, and a vibrant sense of scale that suits the story perfectly.
Performed at the QPAC Lyric Theatre, Annie is uplifting, entertaining, and packed with feel-good energy that resonates with audiences of all ages.
The Cast
The Brisbane production of Annie boasts a stellar line-up of seasoned performers and rising stars whose collective experience elevates this timeless classic to dazzling heights.
The Children Sharing the Role of Annie
The young performers across the production are truly outstanding. From the principal roles to the supporting ensemble, the children bring energy, confidence and joy to the stage — no small feat given the discipline, stamina and professionalism required at such a young age.
Their performances are polished yet full of personality, and it’s impossible not to smile watching them light up the theatre. Collectively, they add warmth, humour and heart to the show, earning some of the biggest and most heartfelt reactions from the audience.
Matilda Casey, Dakota Chanel and Isabella Hayden share the role of Annie in Brisbane, each bringing youthful sparkle, strong stage presence and heartfelt vocals to one of musical theatre’s most iconic characters.
All three have previously performed the role in other cities on this national tour, delighting audiences with their interpretation of Annie’s pluck and optimism.
Anthony Warlow as Daddy Warbucks
Australian stage royalty, Anthony Warlow, needs little introduction. A classically trained lyric baritone and Member of the Order of Australia, Warlow has spent decades thrilling audiences on both musical theatre and opera stages.
His illustrious career includes acclaimed portrayals in The Phantom of the Opera, Sweeney Todd, Jekyll & Hyde, and Guys and Dolls — and he has previously made his Broadway debut in Annie in the role of Warbucks. His return to this role brings both gravitas and warmth to the production.
What truly stands out, however, is his chemistry with Annie. From their earliest scenes together, you can clearly see Warbucks’ guarded formality begin to soften, gradually giving way to genuine affection.
Warlow masterfully conveys this emotional shift, allowing the audience to witness his character’s growing connection and paternal feelings for Annie as the story unfolds — a transformation that feels earned, heartfelt, and deeply moving.
Debora Krizak as Miss Hannigan
Debora Krizak is one of Australia’s most celebrated musical theatre performers, with a career spanning more than two decades.
She’s appeared in major productions including The Producers, A Chorus Line, Sweet Charity, Cabaret, Mamma Mia, We Will Rock You and Billy Elliot, as well as featured roles with Opera Australia.
Known for her magnetic stage presence and character work, Krizak brings humour and nuance to the notoriously mischievous Miss Hannigan. Her portrayal is utterly believable — capturing the character’s sharp-edged crankiness, worn-down bitterness, and boozy bravado without tipping into caricature.
As the perpetually frazzled, hard-drinking owner of the orphanage, she balances comedy with just enough grit to make Miss Hannigan feel grounded and real, earning laughs while still anchoring the character in authenticity.
Amanda Lea LaVergne as Grace Farrell
Making her Australian debut, Broadway-seasoned Amanda Lea LaVergne brings international flair to the role of Grace Farrell. Her résumé includes performances in Grease, The People in the Picture, Bring It On: The Musical (originating the role of Campbell), An American in Paris, Guys and Dolls, Anything Goes, and The Little Mermaid.
Grace Farrell is a major character in Annie — working for the Board of Orphans, serving as Oliver Warbucks’ love interest, and acting as a gentle surrogate mother figure to Annie. LaVergne captures this beautifully, portraying Grace as warm, compassionate and emotionally open.
It’s evident how quickly she falls for Annie, with their bond developing naturally and sincerely on stage. Her rich theatre background adds both vocal polish and stage sophistication to Annie’s spirited world, while grounding the character in genuine warmth and heart.
Greg Page as President Franklin D. Roosevelt
Brisbane audiences may recognise Greg Page not from the stage but from his time as the original Yellow Wiggle of the globally beloved children’s group The Wiggles.
In Annie, Page appears in a relatively small role as President Roosevelt. It’s undeniably a little strange to see him on stage without the movement, high energy and physicality so closely associated with his Wiggles persona — particularly as the character is portrayed using a wheelchair.
Instead, this performance leans more heavily on presence and warmth than action, offering audiences a very different version of a performer they’ve long associated with boundless energy and movement.
This mix of celebrated theatre veterans, crossover stars and talented young performers makes Annie in Brisbane a delightful blend of experience, heart and entertainment — perfect for audiences of all ages.
Tickets
Annie is playing at QPAC in Brisbane now until 31 January. Tickets range in price from $70 to $155.
We had side seats in rows B and C on the balcony, in the 2nd and 3rd rows from the front. While I prefer ground-level seats, these were a good compromise in terms of price and visibility.
We paid just $95 per person for these seats.
Click here to purchase tickets.
Discounted tickets are available for groups of 4+ (conditions apply). Groups of 8+ get even better discounts – click here to make a group booking of 8+.
Accessible Performances
For the hearing impaired, an Auslan-interpreted performance is on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, at 7 pm.
There are also Audio Described performances on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, at 7 pm, and on Thursday, 22 January, at 1 pm.
At these performances, trained Audio Describers provide a commentary with concise descriptions of actions, expressions and gestures to complement the theatre experience for patrons who are blind or have low vision. The description is relayed via a discreet headset using radio frequency.
To book Audio Described performances, it’s best to call 07 3840 7466 or email groups@qpac.com.au.
There are also wheelchair accessible seating areas. To book tickets for these areas, it is best to call 136 246.
Parking
Parking is easy at QPAC thanks to the Performing Arts Car Park (P1), accessible via Stanley Place. Parking spaces however can be limited, so often pre paid parking is your best option.
Keep in mind though, that pre paid parking is $24.10, while the standard rate is only $18.
There are also other car parks within the Performing Arts area in (P2) and (P3).
Other parking just a short walk from QPAC is available at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and South Bank Parklands.
Public Transport
If taking public transport to the show:
- The nearest train station is South Brisbane Station, directly across the road from QPAC on Grey Street.
- The nearest bus station is along Melbourne Street, just at the corner of Grey Street.
- The nearest CityCat (ferry) is the South Bank stop – just a short walk along the river.
Pre-Show Meal or Drink
The surrounding areas of South Bank, Stanley Street, Fish Lane and beyond offer fantastic dining options. However, QPAC has several venues to enjoy a meal or drink before or after Sister Act.
Russell Street Wine Bar
Located on Level G, the Russell Street Wine Bar is only open prior to Playhouse performances. It is a casual venue serving charcuterie boards, cheese plates and a selection of tapas.
tomtom
Formerly known as Bistro, tomtom is a casual venue in an open air courtyard serving various Asian inspired meals. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick bite to eat before the show.
tomtom is located in Cascade Court and is open for pre matinee, as well as pre-evening performances.
Bookings are not required.
Storytellers
Beside Melbourne Street Green, Storytellers is QPAC’s relaxed garden cafe offering an all‑day menu—perfect for pre-show coffee, breakfast or casual dining before your performance. With open-air seating that seamlessly blends into the bustling South Brisbane arts precinct, it’s a serene and inviting place to unwind.
Storytellers is located near the Concert Hall and Lyric Theatre and is open for both pre- and post-matinee, as well as pre-evening performances.
Bookings are not required.
Lyrebird
The Lyrebird offers a fine dining experience serving Italian cuisine.
Also, before some matinee performances, Lyrebird offers a high tea for $25 or $30 per person, including a glass of bubbles.
Lyrebird is on the Ground Floor and is open for pre matinee, as well as pre-evening performances.
Bookings are recommended
Theatre Bars
Outside the theatre, you’ll find bars serving various drinks and snacks. You can also pre order online cheese or antipasto plates to enjoy before or during interval.
The Lyric Theatre bars open 90 minutes before the commencement of the show.
Piano Bar
For a post-theatre experience on select Fridays and Saturdays, the Piano Bar features live performances from rising Brisbane artists from the Jazz Music Institute and Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University. Guests can enjoy a curated blend of jazz, musical theatre, and more in an intimate, sophisticated setting.
Sip on a handcrafted cocktail from our rotating seasonal menu, or indulge in one of our signature favourites, like the timeless Espresso Martini or a crisp, refreshing Negroni.
Our curated selection of local wines, beers, ciders, and spirits ensures something for every taste, with non-alcoholic options also available, including barista-made coffee and tea.
The Piano Bar is located on the ground floor in the QPAC foyer.
Enjoy Annie: The Musical
Hopefully, you found this review of Annie the musical helpful.
Why not check out our other reviews of things to do around Brisbane, such as the Pink Flamingo, Blanc de Blanc, or Soak Bathhouse.
If you’re planning a trip to Brisbane, I highly recommend you check out our full guide to Brisbane, which provides links to everything you need to know to plan your trip.
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