Oliver! Jr.

This was my first visit to Ludwig Theatre Arts and in no way did it disappoint given its reputation already established for good theatre. The quality of performance was matched by an excellent looking set on two levels with a central double door and two staircases to the upper level and four authentic looking street lanterns. As anticipated, the opening number was ‘Food Glorious Food’, a well-choreographed piece, full of energy. Asking for more, orphan Oliver was well played by Fletcher (on the evening I attended) and proved to have a fine suitably sweet voice with ‘Where is Love’.

Mr Bumble, played by Toby also had a good voice throughout and supported by Katie-Ella as the cold and calculating Widow Corney, they kept a firm grip on the workhouse. Sold for £3, Oliver is taken on by the local undertakers as a junior coffin follower. Mr and Mrs Sowerberry (Haydn and Iona) together with Charlotte (Phoebe) and Noah Claypole (Josh) are all suitably mean towards Oliver who has to sleep under the counter.

Soon he meets the artful dodger well played by Rab with great characterisation and a suitable cockney swagger. He introduces Oliver to Fagin played with great conviction by Olly and ‘Consider Yourself’ was a great company number with bags of energy. Olly was very endearing as he welcomed Oliver to the gang and his musical numbers including ‘Be Back Soon’, and ‘Reviewing the Situation’ in Act 2 were excellent.

Joining them all were Nancy played by Juliette and well supported by Bet played by Bella. Juliette established a great presence and her singing throughout was particularly strong, especially with ‘As Long as He Needs Me’. She was of course referring to Bill Sykes, well played by Kaid who did not appear until the end of Act 1, but his stature was enough to know that he was a man to be feared, despite Nancy’s love for him. Kaid provided a frightening disposition well maintained. At the close of Act 1, Oliver is caught picking Mr Brownlow’s pocket on his first mission and is chased by the police in an effective scene with strobe lighting.

Mr Brownlow takes Oliver in to his home and Dillan as Mr Brownlow provided a mature and pleasing presence. Mrs Bedwin played by Georgina had a very nice voice albeit a very brief opportunity to sing and I liked Elliot as Dr Grimwig, also one of the smaller roles. Other good support was provided by George (Charlie Bates), Nancy (Nipper), and Holly (Old Sally).

‘Who will Buy’ was another effective number led by Tia as the Rose Seller and Freddie as the Knife Grinder. Oliver is eventually captured and returned to Fagin’s gang whilst out on an errand for Mr Brownlow, but Nancy realises that he would be better off with Mr Brownlow. When she tries to return Oliver but is spotted by Bill, her murder scene and Bills subsequent death by shooting are very effective with some very good lighting.

Energy levels were well maintained and the sound balance throughout was good. The set as I have reported was excellent and scene changes were undertaken smartly and without fuss. Congratulations to director and choreographer Jack Ludwig and all involved in an impressive production.

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