Oliver

This was without doubt the best production of “Oliver!” that I have ever seen in my thirty years as a regional rep. It began with a very spirited rendition of “Food, Glorious Food” and just continued to enthral the audience with every succeeding scene and musical number.

There was some terrific characterisation from the young cast. Mr Bumble and Widow Corney (Jack Shaw-Downie and Sophie Barnard) were tremendous and “I Shall Scream” was beautifully done, with Widow Corney showing off her seduction moves in a hilarious fashion. “That’s Your Funeral” with Leo de Sigley and Nancy Longland as the Sowerberrys was another high spot.

Ellis Bradley was a fantastic Oliver, composed and believable throughout, and “Where is Love” was very moving. Henry Cox was a great Artful Dodger, full of charm and energy. The children were a delightful crew. Everyone was totally focused and knew exactly what to do. “Consider Yourself” was such fun and “Be Back Soon” was a fabulous finale to Act One.

Nick Rew was an amazing Fagin and it’s difficult to think of him as a teenager. His singing, dialogue and body language were super and he really brought some depth to Fagin’s character.

Laura Caffyn was a convincing Nancy, a genuine “tart with a heart” and “As Long as He Needs Me” was sung with real feeling, and not bellowed from start to finish. Tom Chenhall was a super swaggering Bill Sykes and “My Name” was very menacing. I must also mention Maria Miles beautiful singing as Mrs Bedwin and the glorious voices of all in the superb rendition of “Who Will Buy”. Lewis Pickles was a kind and thoughtful Mr Brownlow and all the smaller principal parts were played well, with some delightful splashes of humour. The adult chorus does not have a lot to do but “Oom-Pah-Pah” with Nancy and Bet was great fun.

Martin Paterson and his orchestra played well throughout, without drowning the singers. The set was well thought out and any changes were made easily by cast members as the story evolved. The lighting was excellent, adding to the changes of scene and atmosphere. As usual the costumes were well thought out, with the right mix of scruffy, smart and garish.

I was very impressed with the final scenes. The chase after Nancy’s death is often a bit feeble and disappointing but this was very slick, with Bill Sykes running off with Oliver and quickly appearing in a spot in the circle. I also loved the children escaping through the auditorium and Fagin’s wistful reprise of “Reviewing the Situation”.

Overall this was an almost perfect production of this popular musical and David and his team really finished on a high. Many thanks for 15 years of excellent junior theatre.

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