Yes, we’ll have some more

By Bridget Cook
A RENOWED Peninsula theatre company is set to bring the beloved British musical Oliver to life at the Cranbourne Community Theatre next month.
The youth division of People’s Playhouse, Kids 4 Kids, will bring to life Charles Dickens’s characters over the July school holidays.
Oliver is an emotional story of a boy who struggles against adversity for a better life.
The musical was directed by new director and peninsula-based drama teacher Claire Darwish and assisted by past youth cast members David Stares, as assistant director, Leah Osburn, as choreographer and Malcom Huddle, as orchestral director.
Oliver Twist will be played by Zac Krause and Jed McDonald, Fagin by Nick Rees, the Artful Dodger by Riley Spadaro, Bill Sikes by Jesse Thomas and Nancy by Amelia Hunter.
The musical, based on the novel Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens, includes music and lyrics by Lionel Bart.
The original production of Oliver premiered in London’s West End in 1960, enjoying a long run, a successful Broadway production in 1963 and further tours and revivals.
It was made into a musical film in 1968. A new London production opened in January 2009, where it stayed for more than 1300 performances.
Sandra Martin, from People’s Playhouse, said the company hoped to add its own touch to the classic.
“Kids 4 Kids and People’s Playhouse hope to bring the classic tale to life for a whole new generation of young people whilst reawakening the nostalgia for their parents and grandparents alike,” she said.
Oliver will be at Cranbourne Community Theatre, Brunt Street, Cranbourne, from Friday 8 July and Saturday 16 July, with both matinee and night performances.
For show times and tickets call the People’s Playhouse hotline on 0402 197 390 or visit www.peoplesplayhouse.asn.au.