It’s a hard knock: LIVE

The cast of Preston Musical Comedy Society's 'Annie' with Sofia Di Meo who is playing the lead role and Freddie the dog who is playing 'Sandy'

From Broadway beginnings to classic film musical, the tale of Annie’s journey from hard-knock New York orphanage to the luxurious hearth of billionaire businessman Oliver Warbucks, has been told all over the world and won numerous awards.

Boasting some of the best-known songs in musical theatre, Annie also packs spectacular sets, glorious costumes, a hilarious script and, of course, the adorable dog Sandy.

The Preston Musical Comedy Society production, at the Charter Theatre from Wednesday, April 16, features a 30-strong cast led by Liz Procter as dastardly, gin-soaked Orphanage Principal Miss Hannigan, while Neil Townsend plays kindly Daddy Warbucks.

They are joined by Kirsty Chapman as Grace Pharrell, assistant to Mr Warbucks, and Luke Taberer as Rooster Hannigan and Lucy-Ella Smith as Lily St-Regis.

At the heart of it all is the little redhead Annie, played by Sofia Di Meo from the Fylde coast.

This talented 10-year-old wowed the panel at auditions in January to win the role. She is the cousin of Lucy-Ella, making it a real family affair.

Sofia has dancing and singing lessons at Clifton Academy in St Annes.

She is currently preparing for her grade exams in ballet, tap and modern, and has performed in the chorus in musicals with Our Lady Star of the Sea Youth Theatre.

Last year, she played Marta Von Trapp in The Sound of Music at the Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

The show is at Preston Charter Theatre, from Wednesday, April 16 until Saturday, April 19, at 7.30pm each evening, with matinees on Good Friday and Saturday, at 2.30pm.

Tickets cost £15, or £12 for concessions £12 and £10 for children, Family tickets cost £45, while groups of 10 or more get the 11th FREE.

Call the box office on 0844 844 7710.