Oliver!

Oliver! is a timeless musical that captures the essence of Charles Dickens's classic novel, Oliver Twist. Chances are you’ve seen it, been in it, directed it or produced it in no specific order. It’s a musical that has stood the test of time for its light and shadow, hope and hopelessness, for its look at the opulence and the underbelly of society.

The story unfolds in Victorian London with heart-wrenching moments, witty humour, and unforgettable songs. It has some of the most well-known characters, music and dialogue of all musicals, but most of all, it has heart.

Oliver, the epitome of innocence and vulnerability, portrayed by Luke Pratt, tugs at the heartstrings with his pure-hearted nature and longing for a better life. His rendition of “Where is Love” is a plaintive cry for love and acceptance, a reminder of the innocence at the heart of the story, and young Luke does well in his lead role. We first meet the young lad asking for more in an orphanage, after which he is packed up and sold by Mr Bumble (Simon Peppercorn) and Widow Corney (Samantha Wills). Now, this pair does something together that I have not seen before, and I think I almost saw a bend and snap move from Wills as she entranced Peppercorn’s Mr Bumble. It was an unexpected and funny flirtation between the two, and the audience ate it up as Wills performed an hilarious “I Shall Scream”. 

After being sold to a the Sowerberry undertaker family (Andrew Down, Tracy Payne and Annabelle Payne, who take on the awful family with gusto), and escaping, young Oliver finds himself on the street where he is quickly picked up by the cunning but charismatic Fagin (Clive Hobson). With a twinkle in his eye and an arsenal of pickpockets, Fagin's character is both humorous and dark. Hobson brings a dynamic energy, and his performance in “Reviewing the Situation” is introspective and witty. You’re never quite sure if he is a good or bad guy, but Hobson plays a Fagin who is almost fatherly to the youngsters with a comical edge. Amongst his tribe of urchins is the charming and savvy Artful Dodger (Aaron Leopardi). With his quick wit and lively moves, he was a clear favourite in the audience. Fagin’s pick-pocketing crew were also a delight. A double cast shares these roles and I was pleased to catch the Handkerchiefs, all wonderfully focused performers down to the tiniest tot. 

The menacing presence of Bill Sikes (Dean McGrath) looms large over the stage, and McGrath does not disappoint. His portrayal exuded danger and unpredictability, and his chilling performance of “My Name” sends shivers down the spine. Playing opposite McGrath, Felicity Amos is love interest Nancy. Her inner conflict between her love for Sikes and her compassion for Oliver is heartbreaking. Her rendition of “As Long as He Needs Me” was an absolute showstopper, her poignant internal struggle laid bare by Amos as her voice echoed through the venue. The raw vulnerability in her voice is both haunting and captivating, as is her performance as she pays the ultimate price for helping the young boy escape Sikes. 

I must also mention the featured adult ensemble, most of whom took on multiple roles: Murray Fayne, Rachel Baker, Stacey Gay, Joshua Van Bentum, Sarah Lavorato, Louise Corbin (who was a very comical Old Sally) and Doug Bryant (who amongst other characters made a highly entertaining Dr Grimwig).

MD Natalie Davis-Pratt created wonderful sounds with a large cast (double) and complicated musical arrangements. The haunting melodies underscore the sorrowful moments, while the upbeat tunes lift the spirits of both the characters and the audience. Another standout number to mention is the marketplace number “Who Will Buy”. Davis-Pratt worked on some bang-on harmonies, with the rich, beautiful sound complimented by lighting coloured for each seller. 

John Brown’s and Duncan Dodds' set design, alongside Dean McGrath’s projections, is a visual feast, transporting the audience to the gritty streets of Victorian London. From the bustling streets to the dark and eerie back alleys, every detail is crafted to enhance the storytelling via projections and a bricked split level. cast and crew move furniture on and off and are, for the most part, able to absorb it into the storytelling. 

Director Amy Biankin and AD Lauren Carter have captured the darkness of history while delivering a comical edge in this classic tale of love, redemption, and the resilience of the human spirit. While the show stands the test of time, the cast performances, the set designs, and the memorable songs come together to create a theatrical experience that is both heart-warming and profound, reminding us of the enduring power of hope and compassion in the face of adversity.

Nicole Smith

Images: Kirstie Abedl Ali Photography.