Oliver!
| First Performance | 07/07/2003 |
| Last Performance | 12/07/2003 |
| Type | Musical |
| Back to Oliver! | |
Reviews
Pam Pennock
It is nineteen years since the Arts Guild last produced Lionel Bart's famous 'Oliver' which I remember with affection. This week, under Gail Jackson's expert direction, the show was given a refreshing uplift with a mostly young and certainly enthusiastic cast.
Stepping into the plum role of Fagin at the very last minute, Andrew Brown gave a most professional and lively performance and Sam Newsome's Nancy was just right. She belted out the songs with great enjoyment and confidence. Our hearts warmed to Matthew Jackson's timid young Oliver especially when he sang 'Where is Love,' with just the right amount of pathos.
There were a few slight dips in pace and movement which I am sure would be rectified later in the week and the supporting cast especially the children, gave of their absolut best. My own favourite moments were with the brilliant Sowerberrys (Keith Rinder and Sue Newsome) and the delightful Street Seller scenes.
Whitkirk Arts Guild have always been served well by ingenious staging and effects and this show was no exception with an extended stage, backdrop screen and scenery which was moved effectively and unobtrusively by the superb stage crew.
All in all, an excellent evening's entertainment.