Oliver!

Huon Valley Theatre embodies everything meritorious about community theatre. This production of Oliver! featured a vibrant and well drilled chorus (“Who will buy?”) and strong, well-cast principals.  Nathan Read’s Fagin was assured, adept in physical comedy although lacking any sense of menace. His “Reviewing the Situation” was the highlight of the show. Also notable were Tony Robbie (Mr Bumble) and Amber Jury (Widow Corney). Jury was in fine voice and the two provided a fine comic turn. Barry Purkiss (Mr Sowerberry) and William Skinner (Bill Sykes) were two of a number deserving of mention, however many otherwise solid performances could have improved through vocal coaching to facilitate consistency of accent across the cast. Amman Williams was a sweetly naive Oliver, his voice airy and pure. The band supported the ensemble with a high degree of competence. Every word, sung or spoken, was audible in the small venue.

The production values of this show were high. The costumes revealed great attention to detail. Sets were clever and versatile with the effect augmented by back projections. The opening video was unnecessary but London Bridge in the fog was highly effective and made the murder of Nancy more poignant. 

Gang autobiographies, written by the juvenile ensemble, attest to the strength of Gray’s direction. Audience enjoyment of this production was very evident.

Anne Blythe-Cooper

Photographer: Jan Dallas.