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| Edinburgh : A&E : Theatre: Reviews |
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Theatre listings > Oliver! The Dickens novel on which the musical is based tells the story of a young workhouse orphan, Oliver Twist . Ill treated in his first job at an undertaker's, he runs away and falls in with the criminal underclass. He becomes part of a pickpocket gang. Being caught leads to a hope of salvation but also puts him great danger. Lionel Bart's musical is crammed full of action, excitement, high drama and wave after wave of terrific songs. The production at Perth does full justice to this deservedly popular musical. This was evident from the large, enthusiastic audience and rapturous applause. From the start the lighting creates an atmosphere of a Victorian world of gas lamps and London fog reminiscent of the famous David Lean film. The stage is used to great effect to underpin the themes of the story, with the different strata of society occupying different levels. Inventive design transforms the stage at Perth into a variety of different spaces while maintaining an overall authentic Dickensian London feel. The pace of the show is terrific. It bowls along from one tremendous musical number to another aided admirably by Rita Henderson's choreography. The large cast show great enthusiasm and unflagging energy and an appreciative audience responds with a matching enthusiasm. There is a lot of humour. The actors skilfully get the most out of the comedy. It is the music that is the heart of the show, however. And here again this production under the musical direction of Jon Beales does full justice to the memorable songs. The singing was impressive especially the roles of Fagin and Nancy. And yes, you do come out whistling the tunes! Theatre listings >
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