While the hunt is still on for the young children who will fill the roles of Annie and the orphans when the show’s Australian tour commences at the Sydney Capitol Theatre in March 2025, producer John Frost for Crossroads Live has revealed the lead cast for the upcoming production of Annie.
Returning to the role of Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks is Anthony Warlow, who has previously portrayed the character both in Australia and on Broadway. Warlow is currently playing Billy Flynn in the national tour of Chicago, which is also being produced by Crossroads Live Australia. His distinguished career includes leading roles in The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, My Fair Lady, and Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
Debora Krizak will play the infamous Miss Hannigan, marking another high-profile role in her acclaimed career. Krizak has starred in productions such as The Producers, Mamma Mia, We Will Rock You, and Billy Elliot. She has also featured in John Frost’s productions of Anything Goes and Cinderella.
Rising star Mackenzie Dunn, currently performing as Rizzo in Grease, will take on the role of Lily St. Regis. Dunn’s past performances include Hairspray, Jersey Boys, and Shrek. Meanwhile Keanu Gonzalez, who also stars in Grease as Kenickie, will portray “Rooster” Hannigan. Gonzalez has previously performed in roles in West Side Story, Hamilton, and Cats.
Broadway actor Amanda Lea LaVergne, recently seen in Jekyll and Hyde in Australia, will play Grace Farrell. Their stage credits include credits in Grease, 9 to 5, Anything Goes, and An American in Paris.
John Frost expressed his excitement about the production, sharing:
I’m so excited that Anthony has agreed to return to play Daddy Warbucks, the role that took him to Broadway during the last Australian tour of Annie. What a joy to welcome Deb Krizak, Mackenzie Dunn and Keanu Gonzalez back for another Crossroads Live show, and to cast Amanda Lea LaVergne in her first big Australian tour. Annie is one of the most delightful and inspiring musicals of all time, and I know Australia will enjoy seeing the sun come up on it again.
Annie is currently slated to perform at the Sydney Capitol Theatre from March 2024, with a Melbourne season planned to commence from July 2024 at the Princess Theatre. For ticketing information, visit the official Annie the Musical Australia website.
