EMMA Harris can already boast a directing success with Urmston Musical Theatre. For she directed last year’s hit Anything Goes.

They say never work with children or animals but Emma is doing both in their next show, Annie – The Musical.

She said: “I went to see Annie in London and picked up a few ideas but most people prefer the traditional version so I haven’t changed it much.

“We have just stopped having separate rehearsals for children and adults.

“The kids love watching the adults working.

“This is the hardest musical I have ever had to stage because the scenes meld into each other. It has been really hard getting it to flow,” said Emma.

“But it’s OK now”.

Annie will be played by 12-year-old Abigail Fernandez-Arias from Urmston Junior Theatre.

“She has worked really hard with Molly, the dog, who is only a puppy and very lively.

“Abigail has stage presence. She has a good rapport with Daddy Warbucks (Matt Darsley) and Grace (Lyndsey Florian)."

Kay Valentine plays the evil Miss Hannigan. “One of her daughters is one of the orphans,” said Emma.

The show will be full of singing and dancing and will be led by an eight piece band conducted by Adam Garner.

•Annie – The Musical is at Urmston Leisure Centre, Bowfell Road, from October 24 – 27 at 7.30 and Saturday, October 28 at noon and 4 pm. For tickets, telephone 0161 408 1288 or book on line.