Oliver!

ICW’s Oliver! has high production values, is well produced and nicely polished. It is being very warmly received by large audiences.

Conor Lowe and Lukas Steinwandel share the titular role. Lukas, on opening night, sported a gorgeous choir-boy voice, which compliments an angelic face. He was always in the moment, and handled this major role with apparent ease.

He was supported by some other very promising young performers. Jacob Miles was a very personable and charming Dodger (he shares with Daniel Paramor), while Felix Malcolm (doubling with George O’Doherty) was strong as Charle Bates.There are two children’s ensembles - Paddington and Bloomsbury, with Paddington very focused and energetic on the evening I watched.

Phoebe Jackson shines as Nancy. A zesty and striking red-head in a scarlet frock, it is difficult to take your eyes off her when she is on stage.Feisty, but sympathetic, she is vocally and dramatically first-rate.

I enjoyed the broad-stroke performances of Dean Misdale and Hayley Parker as Mr. Bumble and Widow Corney. Well-known actor Ivan King, was delightfully dour as Mr Sowerberry wit good support from Cassandra Gorman (Mrs Sowerberry), Laurence Westrip (Noah) and Bailey Spalding (Charlotte).

Jay Walsh’s Fagin had a lovely rapport with his young gang, while Tim Campbell brought beautiful vocal tones to the evil Bill Sykes. Ron Macqueen’s Mr Brownlow was particularly charming, as was Chantel Bell’s Mrs Bedwin.

The adult ensemble worked well as a team, singing impressively and nicely executing the choreography by Lachlan Edward Bain. Who Will Buy? and Oom Pah Pah were highlights.

Costuming by Cherie Hewson was true to the era and Emily Stokoe’s set with multi-level bridge was well-used.

A small orchestra led by Musical Director and Producer Ian Westrip OAM, played with precision.

Oliver! is a family favourite, despite some dark themes and while this production doesn’t shy away from the grittier aspects and tears were shed in the audience, this in an uplifting and fulfilling show for all ages.

Kimberley Shaw