Oliver

Oliver without Bull’s Eye whatever next. The overall effect was very good and the set was excellent. I was fortunate to view this show twice so had the benefit to see both Yellow and Blue teams and have to say I thought the Blue team just edged it, but of both teams, would liked to have heard stronger singing. The Oliver’s and Dodgers were all strong and gave of their best. The rapour between Widow Corney and Mr Bumble whilst endearing and very good didn’t quite hit the mark for me, I felt it needed needed more comedy unlike that of the Sowerberry’s where there were excellent performances from Mr Sowerberry (Daniel Ritcher) and Mrs Sowereberry (Dawn Lloyd) accomplished acting and portrayal of comedy timing well done. Nancy (Claire Cannon) what a performance strong in every sense baring your sole with emotion during your numbers and acting, enhanced by the strong orchestration. I’m always bemused when companies are short of men and have to double up with characters, but I have to say well done to Paul Blakeson who changed from one to the other with great finesse. There was a beautiful cameo role from Mrs Bedwin warm and sincere as was the who will buy number by the company, a tricky sing but carried off very well, the part of Bill Sykes (George King) was played with great conviction shame you didn’t carry a jemmy in your hand!. The show revolved around the sinister character of Fagin (Neil Atherton) pulling on your feelings as he weaves his way through the plot until eventually he pulls you in, an excellent performance. I would say in summarising wardrobe needs to take under control hairstyles in a period piece there is no place for modern quiffs and modern flicks both on the young men and laddies there were mop caps and flat caps in abundance but somehow didn’t manage to cover these up.
Many thanks for your hospitality during my visit  

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