Oliver! Brings Nostalgia Back to London’s West End Stage
The beloved musical Oliver! returns to London, captivating audiences with its timeless charm and unforgettable performances
London, UK, Oliver!, Musical, Theatre, Cameron Mackintosh
London: Oliver! is back in the West End, and it’s just as magical as ever. This classic musical has been around for ages, but it still pulls in crowds of all ages.
It’s hard to believe it’s been 57 years since the film first hit screens. I recently checked out the show at the Gielgud Theatre, and wow, it was a treat!
The story, based on Charles Dickens’ novel, follows young Oliver as he navigates life in London after escaping a workhouse. He ends up with a gang of pickpockets, and the adventure begins.
At our show, Oliver was played by Cian Eagle-Service, who nailed it with his sweet voice in ‘Where is Love’. He really captured Oliver’s innocence.
Then there’s Simon Lipkin as Fagin. He brought a hilarious twist to the character, and his little nods to the original film had everyone laughing.
Fagin’s gang, a lively crew of 21, really brought the songs to life. They delivered some of the most iconic lines, making it a fun experience.
Billy Jenkins, who plays the Artful Dodger, was fantastic! His performance of ‘Consider Yourself’ was a highlight, and the audience loved him.
The set design was spot on, recreating the gritty streets of Victorian London. Shanay Holmes as Nancy was a standout, especially with her stunning rendition of ‘As Long as He Needs Me’.
Aaron Sidwell as Bill Sikes was both riveting and terrifying, especially with a new musical number that added to the drama.
Oscar Conlon-Morrey brought Mr. Bumble to life with a powerful voice that paid homage to the original performance.
With choreography by Matthew Bourne and classic songs by Lionel Bart, this show is a must-see. If you’re thinking about it, now’s the time to book your tickets for 2025!