Oliver

On entering the theatre the scene of the orphanage was set and ready to be populated by the orphans, an eclectic mix all tuneful and sweet. Here we met the endearing Oliver Twist who at the tender age of 10 held his own against the senior members of the company with aplomb, singing with gusto and dancing with assurance. Window Corney and Mr Bumble showed assurance and great comedy rapport. The funeral parlour certainly brought a Tim Burton feel to the proceedings, all characters macabre and thoroughly horrid, Noah made a particularly spectacular entrance and he and Oliver fought with total realism (I guess being brothers in reality made it come naturally!!!!). Running away and arriving in London Oliver then met his ‘mate’ Dodger, a truly self-assured young man who bounced around the stage totally absorbed in his character and expressed much emotion. Meeting Fagin a young Rick Mayall came to mind with great expression and feeling; he portrayed this elderly crook with true understanding, light of foot, but still holding onto the maturity of the dodgy old man with a passion for shiny things. The ‘Ladies’ then arrived beautiful but rough around the edges, Nancy showed mature assurance in this iconic role, totally believable and showing the strength of character to stand up to her Bill, singing with emotional depth and understanding. Bill approached his character with moody violent attack which worked well especially in ‘Fine life’. Costumes, set, lights and sound complimented the performance and created a good ambiance. Fusions' production team are passionate about bringing the best out in these talented youngsters and this production showed how a dedicated team can bring a magic to a little seaside town in the Somerset. Well done everyone on another box office success.

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