Oxford Operatic Society
Oxford Playhouse, 24-29.11.03

This is a show guaranteed to send its audience (and its reviewers!) out singing. The story of Oliver, the workhouse orphan caught up with a band of pickpockets, is a firm favourite amongst all ages.

When watching a musical production, you can often expect the acting to come second to the music. The best thing about Oxford Operatic Society’s production (under the capable hand of Director Stephanie Williams) is undeniably the singing. Even the tiniest cast members have huge voices. Both the adult and children’s ensemble attack their numbers with gusto, and whilst some of them could be even more vibrant, no doubt added energy will spring forth once first night nerves have subsided.

Fagin is as endearing a figure as ever, Edward Simpson executing his demanding solo numbers well in both voice and gesture and interacting well with his playful gang. Isobel McCall is a feisty Nancy, using her powerful voice effectively and shining in leading the rousing chorus pieces, though she could hold back more in the ballads. Charlie Ross alongside her as Bill Sykes is eerie and menacing, with a strong voice and imposing stage presence. Darren Cowley (Sowerberry) and Julie Todd (Mrs Bedwin) also use their brief stage time well.

It is however the youngest members of the cast who are truly to be congratulated. They impressed in terms of vocal ability and stage presence from the very opening. Joseph Harrison (Oliver) and Sebastian Heffer (Dodger) are respectively naïve and self-assured and they certainly hold their own against the adult principals, as do the other members of Fagin’s Gang (unfortunately too numerous to name individually): true stars in the making!

With a little more ‘Oom pah pah’ injected into certain scenes, the well-deserved vociferous appreciation of the first night audience will be replicated and built on throughout the run.

Jennifer Smith, 24.11.03