Oliver!

“I want some more?” is the famous line in this story and, at the end of this performance, this was just what the audience wanted as well! Young Sam Donnachie made a delightful Oliver and showed no sign of nerves at all which won him the sympathy vote from everyone and, from one so young, showed great promise for his future on stage. For the cheeky chappie Artful Dodger, a female was chosen for this role, and Maddie Grieve boldly stayed in character throughout - and what an impressive performance she gave. The ghastly Sowerberrys were vividly portrayed by Barbara McAndie and Alexander Stewart; and Craig Dennis and Anne Kemp added their considerable talents as the pompous Mr Bumble and shrewd Widow Corney. One of the show’s best “nasty” men is, of course, Bill Sykes, and Gavin Russell was evil personified as the brutal, heartless, burglar. Sarah Bernard absolutely nailed the part of his wife, Nancy, loyal to the point of death, and brought out much sympathy to the role before being disposed of in no uncertain manner by the man she loved! Her big song number deserved the roar of approval from the audience. Fagin was in the very capable hands of Ian Cowmeadow who excelled and scurried about as the evil, but wily, leader of the young pickpockets to great effect. Production was slick; the pickpockets well drilled; and the company full of life in the production numbers. PAOS, can I have some more?

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