Oliver!

This well known show with its strong storyline and drama is no stranger to audiences up and down the country.  The Charles Dickens novel was brought to life by a strong cast of principals, ensemble, and children.  The interpretation of this particular production brought out a darker side of the stage production with an element of violence beyond that of which I have seen before.  That said the work of the cast displayed a range of talent that shone through.  The workhouse boys were well drilled in their attempt to get more food to eat.  Of course, at this early stage in the show we are introduced to Oliver as he pleads for more.  Alfie Campbell played the title role of Oliver in the performance I attended, and warmed our hearts with his excellent singing and acting and his performance of Where Is Love? showed the vulnerability in the role.  Mr. Bumble played by Jonathan Proctor and Mrs. Corney played by Jennifer McGowan were commanding and brought out the comedy in their roles.  The Sowerberrys played by Alan Orr and Morven McCallum were well acted and sung and their performance of That’s Your Funeral was well executed.  Charlotte played by Sophie Butler and Noah Claypole played by Kieran Shephard added to the family chaos in the Sowerberry household and they were well cast in the roles.   Other notable performances include Dodger played by Roddy Findlay who was full of character.  The supporting roles of Bet, Mr. Brownlow and Dr Grimwig were all cast well.  No production of Oiver! is complete without the iconic roles of Nancy, Fagin, and Bill Sykes.  Fagin, played by Alan Morton came across as the caring but scheming guardian of the gang of boys and his interpretation of Reviewing The Situation brought out his miserly character.   Bill Sykes played by Colin McGowan was portrayed as an unlikeable, sinister, and somewhat violent character which of course he is, and at times we saw a very dark side of this.  Marianne Carr was well cast as Nancy and the delivery of As Long As He Needs Me was emotional and well controlled.  There was a strong company of chorus and dancers and notable numbers included Oom-Pah-Pah and Who Will Buy?  The impressive set enhanced the overall production and along with the lighting created the atmosphere of the streets and public houses of London’s underworld of theft and violence.  Overall, this production was well done, and credit should be given to the production team and cast.

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