Oliver

Oliver sees a welcome return to the Albany Theatre (Formally the Butts theatre) not only for The Guildhall but for amateur theatre groups in Coventry. This is the first amateur production in this newly refurbished venue.

Although the group has been in “hibernation” since the closure of the Butts theatre it certainly wasn’t obvious from the production. The cast was large with a wide range of ages that would be the envy of some other groups. Ensemble numbers were lively and well presented.

Oliver, played by Dylan Bines when I saw it, had the angelic voice required for the ‘Where is Love’ solo. Sarah-Jayne Tuson’s Nancy was full of punch, yet with that softer side needed; a prefect casting choice. Bill Sykes (Steve Bingham) was wonderfully dark with a powerful rendition of ‘My Name’. Fagin is always an interesting character but Paul Vickers gave him even more depth with his portrayal and his heart felt solo ‘Reviewing the Situation’. All of the cameo roles were nicely played, adding the lighter moments to this sometimes dark musical.

With a detailed set, lit with creativity, this marks a triumphant return of The Guildhall group to the stage.

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