Oliver

Two firsts for me – my first visit to live theatre since February 2020 and my first visit to Kenley Holiday Workshop and what a treat for these two firsts!

There were 40 in the cast with ages ranging from the youngest on stage aged 3 years to 18 years. First time on stage for some of them! It is hard to imagine how the production team achieved such a polished performance in less than two weeks. This shows not only their dedication but also the commitment of the cast.

There was so much energy and fun it would be hard to pick out individual performances but Faith Ellis as Nancy struck the right tone and gave a lovely rendition of ‘As Long As He Needs Me.’ George Pang was a cheeky Artful Dodger and Deen Hossain as Oliver gave just the right mix of vulnerability and spirit. Malachy Jenson and Rosemary Ellis as Mr and Mrs Sowerberry had the right touch of comedy and worked well together as did Zack Hughes as Mr Bumble and Lara Davies as Mrs. Corney. Finn James was a suitably menacing Bill Sykes and Sebastian Davies as Fagin had great character.

But the entire cast was amazing. Great set, suitable choreography, professional musicians, lovely costumes. What more could you want. Although I understand they were beset with a lot of problems relating to Covid, they did it! So in the words of Oliver ‘Please sir, I want some more.’ I look forward to next year.

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