Oliver

Oliver! A musical theatre classic! Well known and loved by many, this production sold out a few weeks ago and you could feel the anticipation and excitement from the audience as the show was due to start.

The set and scenery were cleverly designed and constructed with a London backdrop, high bridge and steps leading down to the stage on one side which were made good use of throughout the performance. There were simple adaptations to change the scene smoothly to the next, adding a sideboard and coffin for the undertakers, a washing line and lit fireplace for Fagin’s den. Enhanced by the lighting design from Stephen Greatorex with just the right amount of lighting for all the cast to still be seen in the dark and intense moments.

I was very impressed with the costumes. The entire cast were dressed from top to toe in Dickensian garments, bonnets, top hats, flat caps and appropriate footwear. The attention to detail in this particular area was superb. The additional props of a chimney sweep and carol singers really took you to the old streets of London. I also loved the costumes of Fagin’s gang, each boy had a unique outfit, and this helped them all stand out individually. It was great to see such young actors express such individual characters, congratulations to the director Nigel Taylor and Production Assistant Lynn Towle for bringing out these smaller details.

The cast staged a strong performance, with lovely vocal performances from various members of the cast. Solos were sung with confidence with a lovely rendition of “Who Will Buy”. The opening of Food Glorious Food from the workhouse boys was well drilled and powerful. Congratulations to the Musical Director Morris Fisher and all the cast for their hard work.   

Some superb characterisations from those in principal and cameo roles. Adrian Redfearn played an excellent Mr Bumble. From the moment he walked on stage we could recognise the well-known character. His costume and mannerisms were everything you would expect Mr Bumble to be and his vocals were lovely, I didn’t want his rendition of “One Boy” to stop, it was so beautiful. Playing opposite him was Freya Primrose as Widow Corney, a comedic duet of “I Shall Scream”.

Very clear sound from Harry Greatorex and Martin Curtis throughout the performance.

The title role of Oliver was ably performed by Forrest Mahjouri as the innocent little orphan, beautiful vocals from such a young actor in” Where is Love and “Who will Buy”. The Artful Dodger was played by River Mahjouri who has great stage presence and delivered his lines and songs very clearly, a lovable rogue. I have to say that all of Fagin’s gang stood out in this performance and I’m sure all these young actors will have a great deal of fun in amateur dramatics in the future. Leading the gang was Fagin himself, played by Jonathan Penton. Fagin is such a unique and iconic character and Jonathan had studied him well and executed his portrayal excellently.

Nancy (Sarah Towle) and Bet (Georgie Bond) brought life and spirit to the stage as soon as they entered. With a lovely, natural relationship between them and the boys. Strong vocals from them both. Nancy’s rendition of ‘As Long as He Needs Me’ brought the house down! Flawless!

The contrast from the well spirited Nancy to the dark and mysterious Bill Sikes was well represented by Dominic Primrose, when you’re playing the “Baddie” and you get a booooo when taking your bow you know you have done a superb job.

Lovely Choreography from Anthony Beaumont -Mills and Lauren Litherland encompassing all ages and abilities of the cast whilst keeping the Dickenson era.

A standing ovation on opening night! many congratulations to all involved. I look forward to seeing Central Musical Theatre Company’s production of Beauty and the Beast in March 2025.

© NODA CIO.  All rights reserved 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.