Craig Revel Horwood confirmed for Annie cast

The Strictly Come Dancing star will replaced Miranda Hart as Miss Hannigan.

Craig Revel Horwood has been confirmed as the new Miss Hanagan in the West End musical production of Annie. He takes on the role following comedian Miranda Hart, who has performed the role since the productions opening in June.

He’ll be taking to the West End stage from the 18 September 2017, although he will not appear on Saturday night’s due to his commitment on the celebrity competition, Strictly Come Dancing.

Craig Revel Horwood is well known for his sharp tongue as a judge on TV’s Strictly Come Dancing, alongside Bruno Tonioli, Darcey Bussell and Shirley Ballas, who will be replacing Len Goodman as the lead judge in the new season.

Craig’s previous theatre performances include rolls in Cats, Miss Saigon, and Crazy For You, as well as having played Miss Hannigan in the touring production of Annie in 2015.

“I am so pleased to be returning to the West End, especially to a role I had such a brilliant time performing on tour,” Craig announced. “Miss Hannigan is evil, sassy and fab-u-lous.”

“It will be a real challenge for me not to take her man-hungry, wicked ways to the Strictly judging panel each Saturday night – though I am sure my fellow judges will keep me in check! I can’t wait to get started.”

Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, Annie follows the story of the title-character as she is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Meanwhile, spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search for her true family.

It’s a busy time for Craig Revel Horwood. As well as judging on the TV show and starring in Annie, his dance expertise see him choreographing the forthcoming production of Son of a Preacher Man, featuring the music of Dusty Springfield.

The Australian-British dancer and choreographer has a significant history within the West End, including two Oliver Award nominations for his work on Spend Spend Spend and My One And Only. He has also supported productions of West Side Story, Miss Saigon and more. He’s been heavily involved behind the scenes of Strictly Come Dancing, having directed the UK tours.

In recent years he’s became a household name as the showbiz dancing judge, using his expertise to evaluate the performance of celebrity contestants, who undertake dancing challenges in styles such as ballroom, salsa and cha cha.

His turn as Miss Hannigan sets him up for a triumphant return to the stage.

Craig Revel Horwood will continue his role as the celebrity judge alongside his run as Miss Hannigan.

Tickets for Annie are available now through Ticketmaster.co.uk.