NEW YORK ― When the spirited orphans in “Annie” chant, “We love you, Miss Hannigan,” you might find it hard not to believe them.

This lively new production features the wonderfully wicked Hannigan portrayed by Whoopi Goldberg, who brings her comedic flair back to the stage after more than 15 years.

Since 2007, Goldberg, at 69, has become a familiar face as a straightforward moderator for ABC’s daytime talk show “The View.” However, she’s also an EGOT winner with numerous Broadway roles, having performed in “Xanadu,” “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” and “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” in addition to her solo performances.

Directed adeptly by Jenn Thompson, the national tour of “Annie” is running for about a month at the grand Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The beloved musical tells the story of the hopeful orphan Annie (Hazel Vogel), who is taken in by the busy billionaire Oliver Warbucks (Christopher Swan) during Christmas, and teaches him to embrace the chaos of NYC life through her spirited antics.

Vogel brings a charmingly warm and humble nature to the usually over-the-top lead role, while Swan captures the gruff exterior balanced with a gentle heart. (His Act 2 performance of “Something Was Missing” is particularly poignant.) Mark Woodward also shines as FDR, who – as a surprise to many “Annie” fans – plays a significant role in the stage adaptation that was cut from the 1999 film. In an unexpected twist, Annie inspires the president to initiate the New Deal after they share a heartfelt rendition of “Tomorrow” in the Oval Office.

The true highlight of this production is undoubtedly Goldberg, who impressively embodies the scheming yet weary Miss Hannigan, a character previously brought to life by Carol Burnett and Dorothy Loudon. Goldberg’s portrayal leans less towards resentment and more towards complete exhaustion from the mischievous children surrounding her. “You must be very sick,” one young girl remarks to Hannigan. “You don’t know the half of it,” Goldberg retorts dryly, taking a swig from her drink as she retreats backstage.

Despite her sarcastic and carefree demeanor, Goldberg conveys a real sense of humanity within the exaggerated character of Hannigan. Her heartbreak is palpable when her criminal brother, Rooster (Rhett Guter), reveals his scheme to murder Annie. Goldberg’s gravelly yet powerful singing voice shines through, especially during the show’s standout numbers “Easy Street” and “Little Girls.”

When it was announced earlier this year that Goldberg would be returning to the stage for “Annie,” many questioned her choice to do this show, as a talent of her caliber could easily select from a plethora of projects. However, the enduring appeal of this musical is clear, and watching Goldberg bring it to life provides a comforting escape at the end of a challenging year for many.

Now, theater enthusiasts can only hope she graces the stage again soon.

“Annie” is showing until January 5 at the Theater at Madison Square Garden. For ticket information and to book, visit msg.com/annie.