THE world’s favourite orphan is back! Annie, the heart-warming rags-to-riches musical starring Hi-De-Hi television legend Su Pollard as dastardly Miss Hannigan descends on Dorset this week and is a show not to be missed.

Annie’s adventures from Miss Hannigan’s orphanage to the luxurious home of Oliver Warbucks, is a story that has been told all over the world for decades.

First seen on stage in 1976, Annie is a wonderful heart-warming story that has become a timeless classic, still enchanting both young and old.

Audiences will also be able to enjoy a performance from a real dog on stage, as Annie befriends Sandy, an abandoned mutt, who quickly becomes her friend and constant companion.

Su, who became a household name playing chalet maid Peggy Ollerenshaw in Hi-De-Hi, reprises her role as the dastardly Miss Hannigan and David McAlister makes a welcome return as billionaire Oliver Warbucks.

This is the sixth time that Su has played the part of gin-soaked orphanage manager Hannigan and she loves reprising the role.

“I saw it years ago with Sheila Hancock in the role and thought it was a part that could be right up my street,” she said. “So when I got the part I was thrilled to bits.

“I have played it so many times and I like finding something different or new about the character. Kids love a bit of silly physical humour so I like to incorporate that.

“So when the police lieutenant brings Annie back after she’s run away, I have Miss Hannigan leaning forward and being a bit brazen with her bosoms!”

She added that when the show gets to Blackpool, Danny the dog – who plays the part of Sandy – will be having a birthday party and maybe even winning a place in the Guinness Book of records.

“He has been playing Sandy for 10 years and we think he will go in the book as the longest serving theatrical canine for one show, which is lovely,” she said. “It is his birthday while we are in Blackpool so we will be throwing a bit of a party for him and inviting dogs from the rescue centre.”

Annie is at Lighthouse in Poole from Tuesday to Saturday, October 4 to 8 with performances at 7.30pm and Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 2.30. Call 0844 406 8666 for tickets or look online.