In the first installment of our new "Essential Tools" series, we review The Vigin Encyclopedia of Stage & Film Musicals.

Colin Larkin's Encyclopedia of Stage & Film Musicals became part of my collection when it caught my eye during a late-night wandering in a used book store. Since then it has quickly become my first reference whenever I need information on a particular composer or show, and has earned a permanent place of honour on my desk.

Last night I saw the National Tour cast of "Annie" at the Fox Theatre in St. Louis, Missouri. It was amazing! The show starred David Barton as Oliver Warbucks and Amanda Balon in the title role.

The opening scene with the orphans was great. I've heard once that you either win or lose your audience with 'Hard-Knock Life'. They definitely won their audience with it. I instantly fell in love with Annalisa DiBernardo as Molly. She was adorable. She played the role with just enough cuteness for it to seem real. I can't see how many Molly's I've seen who tried too hard to be cute and totally lost me. Madison Zavitz as Pepper was great too, as was Marina Rose Macherone as Duffy, Grace Elizabeth Etzkorn as Kate, and Sunny Naughton as July. The only one I really had a hard time with was Abby Spare as Tessie. I couldn't understand half of what she said. I know she's supposed to be the 'cry-baby orphan', but you can whine and cry and still be understood. I also noticed that she was a step behind the other orphans while dancing to "You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile".

I could tell from the minute that Lynn Andrews came on stage as Miss Hannigan that she was amazing. By far the best Hannigan I've ever seen. She played the role with an awesome sense of humor. She had just the right amount of sarcasm. I loved her throughout the entire show.