This was a very good production from the Operatic Society. The show moved along at a good pace, and all the famous Lionel Bart songs were well performed.

The urchins performed the  ‘Food Glorious Food’ opening chorus, which got the show off to a flying start. There were some good principal performances. Oliver Jarvis, in his first role with the society, played Oliver Twist, and Jonathan Lucas played the Artful Dodger.Both very competent performances. Dave Flitcroft was a very good Mr Bumble, he has excellent stage presence, and booming vocals, he was well supported by Lynn McTiffin as Widow Corney.  Fagin , Stuart Evans and Bill Sikes, Jamie Wison, sang and played their parts well, but the star of the show for me was Becky Hardman who was outstanding, in both her script and songs , her rendition of ‘As long as He needs Me ‘, was brilliant. All the minor roles were well played, well done to everybody.

The scenery from Prosceneium  was excellent, and created a superb Victorian atmosphere. The scene changes were quiet and quick, but the continuity could sometimes have benefited from the use of cross fade lighting on some of the scenes rather than blackouts. I’m also a great believer in the company helping the crew with scene changes where possible. Carrying props off on their exit for example. I also thought the costumes from Utopia looked very professional.

The orchestra were well led by David Proud , and it was good to see them performing in front of the stage, rather than at the side.

‘Oliver’ was a very good production from the society, and their hospitality was  good . Thankyou for a very pleasant evening.

        

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