A THEATRE group will celebrate its 100th show with a production of family favourite Oliver!

The show, crammed full of charismatic Dickensian characters and instantly recognisable music, is being staged by Adlington Music and Arts Society.

Oliver Twist, played by Jacob Hodgson, The Artful Dodger, played by Liam Jones, and their dubious pals will convert Adlington Community Centre into a den of iniquity and intrigue from tomorrow.

Helen Cross, ticket secretary, played Nancy in the musical when it was last staged by the group in 1997.

Helen, who joined the society in 1977, said: “It seems like yesterday, you don’t know where the years have gone.

“Oliver! is one of the old popular ones.

“I don’t think people tire of watching it.”

A magical mix of adult and youthful characters will provide an evening of entertainment and songs including Food, Glorious Food, Consider Yourself, As Long as He Needs Me and Reviewing The Situation.

Helen said: “There are some really talented up-and-coming children in the society.

“We hope the society will be able to continue for a lot longer with the talent coming through.”

The musical version of Charles Dickens’ classic tale — about a young orphan boy who falls in with a gang of pickpockets — is directed by Diane Simmons and Jackie Doherty, with the orchestra led by musical director Paul Stanley.

The large cast also includes Philip May as Fagin, Mike Wignall as Bill Sykes and Vikki Birchall as Nancy.

The society’s recent successful productions include Bad Girls and Jesus Christ Superstar.

Oliver! is on at Adlington Community Centre, Railway Road, from Tuesday October 21 to Saturday 25 at 7.15pm, with a 2.15pm Saturday matinee.

Tickets cost £10, call 07799 486 876.