OLIVER!

Adlington Music and Arts Society

Runs until Saturday

This 1960 classic, by the pen of Lionel Bart, never fails to bring a smile.

The toe-tapping score and familiar storyline come to life in this refreshing production, under the direction of duo Jackie Doherty and Diane Simmons.

The opening number, Food Glorious Food, sets the pace for the evening as the 20 strong children’s chorus delivers this and the other chorus numbers with ease. The production numbers were well choreographed.

Chris Higson and Siobhan Barnes as Mr Bumble and Widow Corney bring the perfect comedy touch to the proceedings. 

Mike Wignall, as Bill Sykes, is suitably sinister whilst Jacob Hodgson plays an innocent Oliver and looks just right.

Liam Jones gives a cheeky portrayal of the Artful Dodger; this young man has promise and is one to watch for the future.

Also, Rebecca Crookson as Bet has great stage presence and I am sure she will be playing lead roles in the future.

The street sellers sang Who Will Buy beautifully, a nice mix of voices that sounded great.

Oliver needs a good Fagin and Philip May steps up to the plate with consummate ease.

This part was not over-played and the rapport with the chorus of urchins came across well and led to the main kitchen scene being slick in delivery and oozing with energy in the three quick-fire numbers that this scene presents.

Another pivotal character in this production is the part of Nancy. This casting was bang on, Victoria Birchall is an excellent Nancy. Vocally strong, with a balanced amount of emotion versus strength of character, Victoria had it all – her rendition of As Long as He Needs Me was stunning as we felt every bit of emotion and sentiment she was feeling – a great performance.

The set for this production was outstanding, well designed and with a look of authenticity. Credit should go to the stage and props team for swift changes of the set which took place several times throughout the production.

Attention to detail in the props and costumes departments were evident and with a well-tuned orchestra, under the baton of musical director Paul Stanley, this production is one not to miss.

Paul Cohen