Oliver Twist

This is only the second time NODA have visited QUADS and this time to a drama adapted from the novel by Charles Dickens to which some musical numbers were added.

With only two performances and some of the main characters only having one performance there was only a small opportunity for the cast to demonstrate their hard work.

Despite the small number of performances QUADS did not cut corners with the staging and costuming for this show both of which were well done and could have graced a much larger stage. In addition, we saw some good characterisations and determination to entertain a packed village hall.

The show opened with the appearance of Young QUADS in the workhouse. They were well choreographed and most certainly not put off by having to enter passing through the hall. Alana Webb (on the Friday evening) was a delight as Oliver Twist having chosen the short straw and asking for more and throughout his (her) adventure to London.

Richard Belcher played the part of Mr Bumble well, both during the earlier part of the play while selling Oliver, as well as later realising the potential mistake made. Richard in these early scenes was supported by Karen Morris (Mrs Bumble), John Hyde (Mr Sowerberry), Hannah Upchurch (Charlotte) and Kassey Wood (Noah).

Once in London Oliver met other characters equally well played, especially Dan Scopes (on the Friday evening) as The Artful Dodger and John Ryder as Fagin. They were supported by further fine performances from Mark Avery as Charley Bates, Robyn Harris (who leads Young QUADS) as Nancy, Lily Murray as Bet and Luke French as Bill Sikes.

We later saw Tony Cook as Mr Brownlow, Claire Scopes as Mrs Bedwin and Val Gilks as Old Sally. Other characters were played by members of the company.

Inserted in to the play was a number of songs all of which were done well by the cast members with the backing of a sole piano.

The scenery sourced from previous QUADS productions was exceptionally well painted with some changes to fit this production such as at Mr Brownlow’s house.

The show was an achievement the whole production team should be proud of. Congratulations to all involved.

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