Oliver

I have seen Lionel Bart’s musical “Oliver” on many occasions and also been a member of the cast, so I went to see BOS’s production of this well-known iconic musical thinking I knew exactly what I was going to see, however I was very much mistaken as this excellent dynamic and sometimes dramatic production directed by Liz Clarke gave us some very exciting interesting interpretations of those wonderful characters that we all know so well. There were no weak links in this very talented cast which included Thomas Corcoran who was very strong and secure in the central role of Oliver and Lucas Frost was excellent as the likeable cheeky Artful Dodger. Charlotte Webster as Nancy was a joy to watch and her outstanding performance in the role of Nancy was played with a maturity that belied her age, her rendition of “As Long As He Needs Me “was stunning. Jamie Lester brought to life the unscrupulous Fagin superbly, he understood this character very well and Carl Sedman transmitted an air of danger and intimidation which was just right for the role of Bill Sykes. One of the surprises of the night was Ian Lawson as Mr. Bumble, whose brilliant comic timing and funny facial expressions brought a new perspective and life to the role, he was splendidly complimented by Patricia Tissot as Widow Corney, their rendition of “I Shall Scream”was very comedic and well-acted. Nick Lloyd as Mr Sowerberry the undertaker and Anne Powell as his wife Mrs Sowerberry both played their parts well and were suitably dour. There were other strong performances from actors in supporting roles which included Steve Coghlan as Mr Brownlow, June Beswick as Mrs Bedwin. Lauren Millar as Bet, Alistair Johnson as Dr Grimwig, Laura Boylan as Charlotte, Richard Michell as Noah and Euan Parks as Charley Bates. We must not forget the little star of the show namely Fleur the dog as Bullseye who’s behaviour appeared impeccable, she was a huge hit with the audience. Accents were very good and diction was very clear meaning the story could be followed easily. The important chorus of children were well trained, organised and appeared to be enjoying themselves immensely and along with the adult chorus worked hard with lots of enthusiasm, the quality of the singing from both the adults and children was excellent. Choreography by Karen Parkinson was very good, well thought out and suitable for the production, it was also executed very well by the cast. The Orchestra led by Musical Director Charles Moss played excellently and supported the actors singers and dancers on stage very well.

The set took us back to the London of Charles Dickins and most of the scene changes were done on an open stage with clever use of sound and lighting, however just a couple of small constructive points, I did feel that one or two of the lighting cues were a little late and the occasional sound effect encroached slightly on the dialogue, although having said that the technical and back stage crew did an excellent job adding to the Dickensian atmosphere and the success of this production, so well done. Costumes were just right for the show and the period and I am sure must have helped the cast with their characterisations.

Congratulations must go to Liz Clark for bringing to the stage a reinvigorated excellent production of a well-known musical and well done to all involved in this show.  Thank you for inviting us we hope to see you for your next production.

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