Claire Sweeney to star as Miss Hannigan in Anne at Liverpool Empire

Claire Sweeney is taking on one of stage’s best loved roles as she swaps Corrie for Annie this September.

Liverpool favourite Claire Sweeney is heading back to her hometown this autumn, as she stars as the unforgettable Miss Hannigan in the UK and Ireland tour of ANNIE, arriving at the Liverpool Empire Theatre from Tuesday 22 September to Saturday 26 September.

The role sees Claire step into the shoes of one of musical theatre’s most iconic villains, as the much-loved family show brings its heart, humour and toe-tapping tunes back to the city.

Set in 1930s New York during the Great Depression, ANNIE follows the story of a determined young orphan forced to live under the rule of the cruel Miss Hannigan. Annie’s life takes a magical turn when she’s invited to spend Christmas with famous billionaire Oliver Warbucks — but with Miss Hannigan plotting behind the scenes, things don’t quite go to plan. Packed with heart, hope and some of the most recognisable songs in musical theatre, the show features classics including It’s the Hard Knock Life, Easy Street and the ever-uplifting Tomorrow.

Annie - Liverpool Empire - Claire Sweeney - The Guide Liverpool — Picture – ATG

For Claire, the Liverpool dates are a special homecoming. She’s currently on screen as Cassie Plummer in Coronation Street and is fondly remembered by local audiences for her breakout role as Lindsay Corkhill in Brookside. Her TV career also includes Clocking Off, Holby City, Merseybeat, Benidorm, Scarborough and The Good Ship Murder.

Her theatre career is just as impressive. Claire has starred in the West End as Roxie Hart in Chicago and Miss Adelaide in Guys and Dolls opposite Patrick Swayze, as well as leading national tours of 9 to 5 the Musical, Crazy For You, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Legally Blonde and Hairspray. She’s also no stranger to Liverpool stages, having co-written and toured Sex in Suburbia following its hugely successful run at the Royal Court Liverpool.

She’ll appear alongside Alex Bourne as billionaire Oliver Warbucks, with Tanisha-Mae Brown as Grace Farrell, Christian Cooper as Rooster and Amber Kennedy as Lily St. Regis.

Directed by Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster, this new production of ANNIE features set and costume design by Colin Richmond, choreography by Nick Winston, lighting by Ben Cracknell and sound design by Richard Brooker — bringing fresh energy to a musical that continues to delight generations.

With a homegrown star leading the cast and one of the most loved family musicals of all time on its way, ANNIE at the Liverpool Empire is shaping up to be a must-see this autumn.