Few musicals are as well-known and well-loved by both young and old as Lionel Bart’s Oliver!
Bath Light Operatic Group performing the musical Oliver! | Photo © Stewart McPherson
Packed with boisterous and poignant songs, mischievous urchins, loveable rogues and a touch of menace, this is a show which seems quotable and singable by every man and his dog – and that includes Bill Sikes and Bullseye.
This week’s production at the Theatre Royal is by Bath Light Operatic Group, so we know we are in safe hands, and the company performs it with obvious enjoyment.
Director Tristan Carter brings some novel touches (the setting of the opening scenes in the West Country brings some extra laughs) but in the main serves up a strong traditional production which is exactly what audiences for this show demand.
Using just one principal set, there is clever use of groupings, furniture and lighting to conjure the multiple settings the show requires; particular credit to Jon Vooght’s lighting design for the entrance to Fagin’s den and the use of sinister shadows.
Matt Finch’s orchestra is adroit and never overshadows the scenes, and Lizzie Andrews’ dance routines are polished and zesty.
The company, adults and kids alike, throw themselves into boisterous songs like Oom Pah Pah and Consider Yourself with clear relish.
As Fagin, Geoff White provides a masterclass on selling comedic songs, with excellent comic timing in his dialogue, wisely avoiding the antisemitic tropes which can happen with this character, even if some of the ad-libs seemed a touch incongruous in an otherwise traditional production.
Harriet Lowe gives us a highly likeable and determined Nancy, with genuinely emotive vocals.
Nick Feierabend as Sikes provides genuine menace with his stillness and strikingly brooding voice, and Dodger (William Millard in this performance) is brightly perky and leads the chorus of highly talented children in some very impressive dancing.
Meanwhile “Doris” as Sikes’ bull terrier Bullseye effortlessly steals each scene she is in, simply by existing on stage.
But in many ways the highlight of this show is Oliver singing Where Is Love? Charlie Alonso played him on press night, his excellent singing voice cracking with sadness, displaying a real confidence in leading the company which belies his young age.
This is a slick, colourful, energetic and moving production of a much-loved show, bringing the audience to a standing ovation. Oom Pah Pah indeed!
Oliver! is showing at Theatre Royal Bath until 16th September. Box office: 01225 448844.
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Reviewer: Steve Huggins
