Oliver

If you want a sure-fire hit show, ensuring full houses, then look no further than 'Oliver'.  From the original Dickens story of the orphan boy, Oliver Twist, Lionel Bart created a wonderful musical classic which has delighted audiences since 1960 - and its popularity shows no sign of abating. LIDOS presented a simply charming production at the Carriageworks recently and I was delighted to be invited to review it on the VIP Evening. Sian Lomax, making her directorial debut with LIDOS, directed her cast sensitively and with expertise, bringing to the production some innovative staging. She had marvellous support from a strong cast of principals, who brought the story to life! The story had all the elements for characterisations, and the lead actors made the most of the dialogue and the musical numbers. There were two musical directors for this production, Lucy Eyre and Robert Sanders - they had rehearsed their cast well, the singing was of a very high standard. The orchestra was placed behind the cast at the back of the stage which must have been a little disconcerting for the performaers, but an added bonus for us in the audience, every word of dialogue and song was audible! Choreography was once again in the capable hands of Emma Tempest and Donna Wells; they told me that it had been inspiring for them to  choreograph a period show, rather than modern and they certainly rose to the new challenge!

You cannot escape the children in 'Oliver' - and this team worked very hard at their singing and acting, especially in the scenes with 'Fagin' - their cockney accents were authentic and still understandable!

As always with LIDOS productions, the backstage crew (managed by Paul Harding) were efficient in set changes - an excellent set with steps and bridges gave the cast plenty of scope for movement - lighting could have been a little 'moodier', but I do understand the constraints. Costumes were effective, but a little more care in accessories would have given a more 'period' feel, likewise with hair and wigs - but again, I do understand the difficulties encountered during the run of the show (alongside preparations for the Triathlon) - this was a large cast by Carriageworks standards!

This tight-knit group ensures that Amateur Theatre is very much 'alive and well' - we want 'More' - Congratulations all round! 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.