RAGS to riches family favourite Annie is stopping off at two local venues this month, starting at Malvern's Festival Theatre from Monday.

Starring Su Pollard, the popular musical tells the tale of 11-year-old orphan Annie and her desire to escape her miserable childhood in a New York orphanage.

A spokesman explains: "Fate takes an unexpected turn when local billionaire businessman Oliver Warbucks decides to host an orphan for Christmas and Annie is chosen as the lucky candidate.

"Warbucks decides to adopt her, after first promising to make every effort to find her real parents."

This is when things become chaotic, as the announcement of a $50,000 award for her real family to come forward causes hundreds to make a claim and mayhem ensues.

Best known for her portrayal of Peggy in Hi-de-Hi, Su Pollard stars as Miss Hannigan, the orphanage's mean-tempered matron who, with her sinister brother Rooster, tries to scupper Annie's hopes of a new life.

Featuring classic songs Tomorrow, It's A Hard Knock Life and You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile, the musical also includes local children who play the cast of orphans.

Annie plays at Malvern from Monday to Saturday, November 8-13 at 7.30pm with Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm. Tickets, priced £16-£24 (under 18s £10) from 01684 892277 or online at www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

The musical can also be seen at Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre from November 30 to December 4, evenings 7.30pm, Wednesday and Saturday 2.30pm. Tickets are £10-£23 from 0870 607 7544.