Oliver!

What a fitting way to celebrate a 50-year anniversary. As far as I’m concerned you cannot go far wrong with a good classic production of Oliver! With a fantastically talented cast, familiar melodies and rousing chorus numbers throughout, the cast of Stags certainly delivered on every level.

On reading through the programme I noted the same scenery had been hired that I had myself used previously many years ago and as soon as the stage lights came up the fond memories came flooding back. I must pass comment that the set was utilised to good effect on the limited stage and also back stage available at this theatre.

As far as the younger performers were listed, I had the pleasure of seeing the Friday evenings cast of the Pick Pockets and a duo where Oisin Kelly gave a truly enigmatic performance as Oliver, “Where is love “was beautifully touching. Paired with Billy Morris-Stelle as the cheeky chappie Dodger, I loved “I’d do anything”, he was just oozing with confidence. Supported by the well-rehearsed orphans /thieves /Londoners/ Fagin’s gang, their camaraderie shone during a tight well-rehearsed opening number “Food Glorious, Food “It’s not easy singing and moving in unison, every single move was coordinated and in time with each other as was the movement to the music.The standard of all the children’s performances throughout were superb, it was entertaining to see all the individual characters develop. I am sure the other gang, the Little Crooks were equally as good its such a pity we can’t review twice to see both groups.

The larger-than-life character of Mr Bumble was played well by Jake Genders. His partner in crime was played by Rosie Harvey as Widow Corney, her comedic timing and superb characterisation  made the audience laugh out loud during “I Shall Scream “.  I also really enjoyed Siobhon Thornley’s characterisation of Nancy, her beautiful tone of voice when singing the haunting “As long as he needs me “. I thought she brought an energy to the production, and it was evident the gang had formed a great onstage relationship with both Nancy and Bet played by Emily Simpson.  Emily has fantastic presence, every time she stepped foot on stage my gaze was drawn to her, with one of their best numbers being “It’s a Fine Life “.

Bill Sykes was played by Dean Wilson; his character really was as vile and menacing as he could be. On this occasion we didn’t see Bills dog bullseye and to be honest it still worked for me. 

Fagin being one of the most coveted male lead roles in adult theatre, was played superbly well by Matt Barnard, I must say in the wig, beard and makeup he really looked the part completed by his wonderful characterisation and singing voice, ultimately, he stole the show for me - bravo!

The other colourful characters were all well cast, each had their own vitally important role to play, the undertakers Mr & Mrs Sowerberry- Harvey Grant and Jenni Tomkinson respectively and their daughter Charlotte – Hope Goodyear, Noah Claypole- Alex Fraser and Mr Brownlow -. Nick Salter.

One of the highlights of the evening for me were the beautiful harmonies of the street sellers in “Who Will Buy“ special mention must go to Jenni Tomkinson, Kate Gladwin, Ellen Nicholls & Daniel Hancox, it has always been one of my absolute favourite musical numbers.

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