Oliver!

This production featured a large cast of mixed ages, all of whom contributed in a big way to the overall success of this fast moving and fascinating production.

The split stage was set up as the Workhouse on the lower level, with three long tables with benches, dishes and wooden spoons, and this was nicely lit through a window gobo which created just the right atmosphere. There was a prologue played out on the upper level of the stage, which showed Old Sal stealing the all important necklace at Oliver's Mother's deathbed. The entry of the Workhouse children, accompanied by their 'stomping' across the stage, was full of conviction, and this number was performed at a very lively pace. Each member of the ensemble clearly demonstrated their feelings through their use of facial expression and clear diction.

The interlude in the parlour, between Mr Bumble and Widow Corney benefited from a speedy and efficient (and well rehearsed) scene change, which maintained the pace effectively. The cat (so often talked about in this show, but never seen) was a nice addition, and I loved the treatment it received at the feet of Mr Bumble! The sale of Oliver to the Sowerberrys took us to the Funeral Parlour via another nicely arranged scene change, with cast members moving furniture and scenery in a fast and efficient manner. The segue from the dialogue into 'Where is Love' was a little too quick and perhaps could have been enhanced by Oliver having a little more time on his own to absorb the bleakness of his situation, and this in turn would have enabled him to really connect with the lyrics of the song.

The ensemble gradually took to the stage for the 'Consider Yourself' number, and it seemed that many of the performers lacked purpose in their entrances at this time, with quite a few coming on with no real energy and appearing to just stand around, waiting for something to happen. By contrast, the entrance of the ensemble for the later street scene (involving the theft from Mr Brownlow) was excellent, with each member of the ensemble appearing to have a definite character, and interacting well to create a lively and believable scene. Choreography in 'Consider Yourself' and subsequent numbers was performed with real energy and enthusiasm, and the ensemble singing throughout the show was of a very high standard. I particularly liked the choreography/direction of Oom Pah Pah which was quite simple but very effective.

Fagin and Nancy brought a new energy to the show at this point and interacted well with each other and with the 'boys'. There are so many songs at this point in the show, it is quite difficult for these characters to establish themselves straight away, and this may have been the reason why I felt that both Nancy and Fagin became more comfortable as the show went on. Indeed, the 2nd Act scene involving the argument between Bill, Nancy and Fagin and subsequent 'Fine Life' reprise was performed well with excellent physicality and showed good teamwork.

Costumes were excellent throughout: I particularly liked the oversized tail coats on the little boys, and the colour coordinated 'Who Will Buy' costumes. Some of the costumes looked a little too clean, particularly the aprons and skirt hems, but otherwise they looked very authentic. Scenery was minimal, mostly consisting of trucks, but it was well painted and constructed. Using the same stage for 3 different shows per week must present huge problems and requires a lot of imagination, and this group are to be commended for the quality of their scenery and staging in this respect.

Props were all appropriate and well handled. Lighting changes were well timed, with a good storm effect at the beginning. Sound reproduction through the radio mics seemed a little muffled at times, particularly when characters were shouting, so some lines were lost, but there was a good balance between performers and band, with the underscoring never overpowering the dialogue. The band themselves were very good. Make up seemed appropriate.

There were some really nice moments:  I loved the covering of Old Sal's body with the cloth, and the unceremonious way she was pushed off into the wings; the 'old lady' who was hit by Bill Sykes during 'My Name' almost stole the scene; Fagin's 'telescope' moment at the end was a joy, and I have to say, I am always won over by a solid canine performance! The climax of the show, with the murder of Nancy, was cleverly done and very realistic (causing the small child next to me to burst into tears!). The subsequent chase scene across the bridge was less convincing. I wondered if the boys could have been used to cause more chaos in this scene, rather than just exiting across the bridge, giving the audience less time to work out what was happening, so that the shooting was more of a shock. Fagin's appearance from the trapdoor was excellent, and I didn't see the trapdoor open or close!

This was a highly entertaining show, performed with real maturity by this young cast. Thank you for a lovely evening's entertainment.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.