Based on the Charles Dickens’ 1838 classic Oliver Twist, OLIVER! has further immortalized this ageless story of a young orphan who finds himself living in the slums of London. Winner of multiple Tony Awards, this fiery musical has all the elements needed to cast a lasting impression on its audience.
OLIVER! follows the story of Oliver Twist, a kind, goodhearted kid who is brought to an orphanage after his mother dies while giving birth to him. He is mistreated and eventually sold to a family run funeral parlor by Mr. Bumble, the orphanage’s chief authority. Realizing he is damned to a life of further abuse, Oliver makes a break for it, running away to take his chances on the seedy streets of London. It is on these streets where he quickly makes friends with “The Artful Dodger”, a street smart pickpocket who brings Oliver back to his hideout to join a band of child criminals run by “Fagin”, an older man who makes his money by instructing and teaching these children grifting and petty street crime. Oliver, not cut out for this kind of life, is then forced to make some tough decisions.
OLIVER!, Drury Lane’s big musical, is filled with unforgettable show tunes including, “Consider Yourself”, “As Long As He Needs Me’ and “I’d Do Anything”. Heidi Kettenring leads the large cast of 35 as “Nancy” in this large scale production that is captivating from its opening scene where the “Workhouse Boys” set the tone with the big dance and singing number, “Food Glorious Food”.
Though there are many fantastic performances worth noting including Brady Tutton as “Oliver Twist”, it is the “Workhouse Boys” who double as “Fagin’s Gang” that really steal the show. This talented group comprised of children did everything asked of them and more, displaying strong and polished vocals and executing complicated dance sequences to perfection.
OLIVER! is a total package that has everything, including fun song and dance numbers, a well-designed set that takes the audience to mid-19th century London and a compelling story that is fun to follow. OLIVER! is playing Drury Lane in Oakbrook (100 Drury Lane) through June 2nd. For tickets and/or other show information call 630-530-0111 or visit www.drurylane.com.
