Oliver

The Gielgud Theatre

We last reviewed this production of Oliver! when it opened at the Chichester Festival Theatre last July. It has now (like many of Chichester’s productions) transferred to London and is booking well into next year to packed houses.

What makes this such a popular musical?

Firstly, everyone loves a classic. Based on Charles Dickens’ famous novel, the first production opened in the West End over 65 years ago. A testament to its underdog story, social commentary and endearing songs, it has been a regular visitor ever since.

I last saw Oliver! at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, but its home now is the much smaller Gielgud Theatre. I feel this more intimate venue works much better, as much of the show takes place in small, dingy settings such as a pub, an undertaker’s and Fagin’s den. Lez Brotherton’s design also transforms this space into much larger settings with ease, including busy London streets.

Simon Lipkin excels in the pivotal role of Fagin. He has oodles of charm and comedic flair, yet he adds a sinister edge to Fagin rarely seen – it works well. For the performance I caught (a Thursday matinee), Lipkin was accompanied onstage by the ‘alternative’ Nancy, Ava Brennan, whose vulnerability was palpable as she weighed up her relationship with the despicable Bill Sykes, played by understudy Peter Nash, who radiated evil.

Another understudy at this performance was Charlie Stripp, taking the role of the cheeky Artful Dodger. He certainly stole the show with the endlessly catchy ‘Consider Yourself’ – easily the most fun part of the show. Jack Philpott as Oliver tugged at the heartstrings, and the ensemble were fantastic.

Yes, I think Oliver! will stick around for a little while this time. It is a solid performance and well worth seeing. Lionel Bart’s music is as memorable as ever, and sixty years on, we still find this orphan’s rags-to-riches story as endearing as it has ever been.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Reviewer Sammi O’Neill