Oliver

It is always a pleasure to go back in time and refresh one’s memory with this evergreen musical.  Every time I see a production of this musical I see something new.  It was a joy to see the Theatre packed on Saturday evening, just as it had been on the three previous performances.  I note from the programme, the Society approached four of the local Primary School choirs in their search for younger  members of the cast including Olivers, Dodgers, Fagin’s Gang and Workhouse Children, so a huge ‘Congratulations’ to all who took part in this venture, giving young children the opportunity to tread the boards.

Workhouse Children raised the roof with ‘Food Glorious Food’ which set the mood and time of this Victorian piece by Lionel Bart.  On the final performance I witnessed, Millie Reynolds gave us an excellent portrayal of the role of Oliver ticking all boxes.  Although I did not see Cemlyn Hayes-Gamble, in the role in earlier performances, I have it on very good authority that he also gave an outstanding characterisation of this enviable role.

Alfie Davies and Matthew Pawley shared the role of Dodger. I saw Alfie’s superb performance and of course Matthew’s portrayal was equally exceptional. Well done !!

Fagin’s Gang shone in the piece.

The role of Fagin was in the capable hands of Gareth Woodhouse. It was obvious he had researched the character. His rapport with his gang was excellent and he brought out the comedy, ducking and diving at every opportunity. The delivery of vocal numbers was ‘spot on’ and he was believable in the schooling of his young charges.

Phil Evans gave a creditable performance as Mr Bumble, hitting all the top notes with ease with ‘Boy for Sale’ whilst Chris Clarke gave a first class performance as Widow Corney with her ‘ I Shall Scream’

Ghoulish contributions from Mike Clarke and Alison Stephens as Mr & Mrs Sowerberry respectively, together with valuable contributions from Jasmine Anderson as Charlotte and Ethan Andrews-Hardman as Noah.

Lovely performance from Hollie Jones as Nancy. She demonstrated both joyfulness and anguish throughout the piece, a highlight of the show being ‘As Long As Needs Me’ which was well received by the audience.

Tilly Stephens fully justified her selection as Bet.

Oliver Jones put his stamp on the character Bill Sikes with his first entrance, although I thought he was a bit too squeaky clean at times, he coped with all his tasks well including handling the dog Bullseye, wonderfully played by Holly .His solo ‘My Name’ was memorable.

Proving to be a man of many characters and so different from his role in Act 1, Mike Clarke came up with a heartwarming characterisation of Mr Brownlow.  Lovely contribution from Sonia Deacon as Mrs Bedwin, the Housekeeper and a solid portrayal from Bex Gunson as Dr Grimwig.  I must compliment the four vendors in the ‘Who Will Buy’ sequence. Rose Seller, Macy Stephens: Milk Maid, Millie
Williams: Strawberry Seller, Jasmine Anderson, and Knife Grinder, Ethan Andrews-Hardiman.  The quartet hit all the right notes in this difficult number, harmonizing beautifully.

There were many minor roles and one liners well delivered.

Choreography was full of energy and well devised. It was evident that many rehearsals resulted in excellent coordination in all chorus numbers, particularly in Oom-pah-pah and Consider Yourself, as well as a well-choreographed Fagin’s Gang.  Stage Crew were swift and efficient as usual with no pauses between scenes and costumes were of the period.

In all, an excellent production, well worth my trip and fully deserving of the standing ovation the company received.

Thank you once again Newtown, for your most valid invitation.

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