Oliver

What a great production this was, the principals were supported by a very well directed chorus.

The singing and choreography by the Workhouse children and Fagins Gang were disciplined     All the main characters were extremely well portrayed, Oliver (Ben Martin) was suitably appealing, full of confidence and energy   Nancy (Karen Hambleton) was ideally cast – her singing was very strong.   She must be congratulated on the change of character from a raucous “Oom Pah Pah” to the tender “As Long As He Needs Me”.

Joel Foster as The Artful Dodger was wonderful, full of personality, great talent whose character never faltered during the whole performance – one of the best I have ever seen.

Steve Foster brought Fagin alive with original touches and rapport, and Andy Hambleton was menacing as Bill Sykes, although I did miss Bullseye.

There were some good characterisations in all the cameo roles Mr Bumble and Widow Corney (Andy Last and Angela Wynne), the Sowerberrys (Ian Wishlade and Rachel Cook ) and Charlotte (Helena Stone) and Noah Claypole (Bradley Hambleton) added to the Undertakers’ scene.

Compliments must go to the Street Vendors on their rendering of “Who Will Buy”.

Good scenery which was easily converted to depict the many scenes.

All the musical numbers were accompanied by a good orchestra.

Congratulations to Lee Smith on his debut as Director/Choreographer.

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