Oliver

Charles Dickens would never have imagined that his novel Oliver Twist, with it’s starving orphans, workhouses and murdering crooks would become one of the most popular musicals of all time. Lionel Bart put music and dancing to this grim look into Victorian London and created some of the best songs in musical theatre.

The scenery and set dressing was very effective. Lighting design added to the sombre mood that was Victorian London. It was nice to see the back-stage crew also in costume as though they were all part of it. The orchestra, conducted by Martin Collard, was good and I must mention the excellent solo violin playing during Fagin’s solo. This is not a show for chorus but when they did appear, were well balanced and animated. Costumes were also good and authentic.

The opening number, which features all the children together, was a powerful, well disciplined performance, full of energy an expression. This is when we get to see and hear George Wood who played Oliver at this performance (a shared role). He gave a very polished performance and showed no signs of nerves in his solos. Ivan Leigh as Mr Bumble and Lorraine Fawcett as Widow Corney were a delightful comic pair and put in strong performances, as did Denzil Edwards and Julie McDowell ( Mr & Mrs Sowerberry) they were ably supported by Tom Tapsfield (Noah Claypole) and Leonie Airlie (Charlotte) small, but important roles. The Artful Dodger (Nathan Whale in tonight’s performance) had good stage presence and was very confident in both singing and acting.

A highlight was Michael Jamieson Smith as Fagin, both his acting and singing were of excellent quality and he played the role with warmth and charisma. Nancy (Cheryl Storer) was well cast in this part with a strong singing voice. She managed to put across Nancy’s sensitivity and vulnerability. Bill Sykes (Elliott Emanuel) obviously enjoyed playing this character as he looked and acted the villain.

Elizabeth Witt’s imaginative chorography, once again, was excellent and both she and Director Kate Organ deserve a medal having to cope with such a large cast and all those kids!

It is always difficult for such a well-known musical to be given ‘fresh‘ touches but this was achieved to a high standard. 

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