Oliver

No matter how many times I have seen “Oliver”, be it on stage or screen, I always greatly enjoy the experience. Tonight was no exception. How can we not be enthralled by the much-loved melodies and the grand guignol characters wrapped around a much loved story.

Oliver and the Workhouse Kids opened the show with panache as they sank their teeth into “Food Glorious Food.”  Utilising the full stage, (and it is a large one) they conjured a tangible sense of deprivation. The steaming plates of bangers and mash destined for the workhouse directors were a neat touch.Enter Mr. Bumble the beadle and Widow Corney. Dressed as only Mr. Bumble should be and wielding a stout cane David Hulme was all we know and love about  this outrageously self important yet darkly humorous monster. “Oliver” was duly delivered.The couple's parlour flirtation was skilfully executed: Wendy Watson giving us an amusingt rendition of “I Shall Scream”.  By the end of the scene I was not sure of the origin of her scream. Arriving at Mr. Sowerberry’s undertakers we were introduced to the sour faced proprietor. Paul Thompson was outstanding. He employed all the mannerisms of obsequious funeral directors. Appropriately costumed he made the most of this often overlooked character while adding touches of sly wit.  Vicky Royle was an ideal foil as Mrs. Sowerberry while Noah Claypole in the hands of Ryan Collett was a credible bully-coward. “Consider Yourself” was masterly, giving the entire Company the chance to show off their moves and dangle their shapely legs. Catherine Cox’s choreography was strong, adding greatly to the audience's enjoyment. We all know the story and await with eager anticipation for the real baddy to appear. It is always a thrill to encounter Fagin. Sitting hunched  brooding on a small stool with his back to the audience we waited eagerly for him to turn to face us. Stevan Manley immediately drew us into the psyche of the sad old petty criminal. Stevan’s was a fine interpretation. In truth so many great actors have brought their skills to the role it would be nigh impossible to create something entirely new. Yet Stevan, within the confines of our preconceptions, was at ease in showing us the inner turmoil of this lonely outcast from polite society.All four of the thieves' kitchen songs hit the mark. The defiantly optimistic Nancy, Cathryn Osbourne, bounced onto the stage with authority, determination and a fine singing voice. 

It is a pity Lionel Bart never managed to repeat the success of this musical. Attempts to do so with “Blitz” and the dreadful mock pantomime “Twang” not only made the critics weep but also managed to bankrupt the composer. I often wonder how someone capable of writing such a classic, as “Oliver” undoubtedly must be judged, failed so badly afterwards. Such was I thinking as we retired to the bar to enjoy Keith’s ever engaging conversation, knowing we would be back (in our seats) soon.

The second half opens with a veritable bang. “Oom-Pah-Pah” made us all sit up and take notice after our brief absence. It is a song designed to get the audience singing along too. And we all did. The swirls of the skirts and the antics of the drinkers were infectious. It is a master stroke of construction that such a jolly song is followed by the grim “My Name”. Bill Sykes is a character for whom there is not an iota of sympathy. I can think of no one better to play this role than Damian Marsh,( I think that is his name). Quickly contrasted by the tear jerker “As Long As He Needs Me”  our sensibilities are deftly played with. “Who Will Buy? continues this assault on our emotions. I have often seen this song played with the ensemble littering the stage making it hard to see which seller is singing. The individual spots were a neat idea highlighting the poignancy of the song. Let us not forget  these are poor people reliant for their welfare on the response they get from buyers. In this respect it becomes far more than just another pretty song. And then as if to contradict their fragile  reliance on trade Lionel Bart reprises “It’s A Fine Life”  but this time with Fagin, Sykes and Dodger included. Oh the irony!  Perhaps the most dynamic of the songs “Reviewing The Situation” comes swiftly after. Stevan Manley engaged our senses and sympathy with a touchingly understated rendition. We know from this point on that the action is drawing to its close. Oliver is returned to his family, Nancy still believes in loyalty before being brutally murdered by Sykes who is himself  dispatched soon after. As Oliver Louis Peel came up to the mark and surely has a great future ahead of him. Likewise Thomas Homer skillfully showed us a cheeky chappy.  Amy Riley, Jason Morris, Liz Rowell, Alan Hargreaves and Kara Royle all added colour to their roles by ably supporting the principals with strong performances. 

Direction by David Hulme was clear, unfussy and confident. Under the legendary baton of Lisa Manley the band were exemplary. Sound and lighting were spot on and the stage well managed. The fruits of everyone's labours were indeed enjoyed by all. 

Thank you, Pendle Hippodrome Theatre Company.

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