Musical theatre: The classic musical adaption of the famous Charles Dickens novel “Oliver Twist” certainly drew a crowd on openig night.
Put on by Pirate Productions and New World Theatre Club and directed by Neil Johnson, Oliver! was totally sold out weeks ahead of the opening night at the Kinneksbond in Mamer. The classic family show saw rows and rows of children and adults buzzing with excitement to see this classic production.
With a cast of 40 children, 40 adults and a 26-piece orchestra, there was never a dull moment. On opening night young Noam Golergant (he alternates on successive shows with Jack Guilfoyle) took on the huge role of Oliver. Impressed by the sheer amount of lines and choreography that the young actor had to remember, the audience were right behind him from the opening act. He candidly admits, “I’ve got a very big role in such a big play!” and a big play it was. Nine-year old Noam sang all the classics with a large chorus and accompanying orchestra. ‘Food glorious food’ was particularly noteworthy and opened up the show beautifully. The audience were excited and eager for the rest to unfold.
Jeff Konter played Bill Sykes, and Adam Guilfoyle was the Artful Dodger (a role he plays on alternate shows with Giovanni Ferro). Meanwhile Scottish native Ruth Gillen charmed audiences as Nancy with her immaculate cockney accent and seductive singing voice. Perhaps many would agree though that the star of the show was Brian Parker who played Fagin. He embodied the leader of the thieves in every single way. He took on the classic ‘You got to pick a pocket or two’, and commanded the stage whilst allowing the orchestra to complement his stage presence. Having performed in the chorus of Pirate Productions since 1995, Parker has been involved in many productions over the years and with the part of Fagin, he is able to showcase his theatrical and vocal abilities.
The details in the costume and set design transported the audience back to 1830s England and it was amazing to see that every single member of this enormous cast was dressed from head to toe in appropriate costume.
Although the whole show came together very nicely, it was possibly the music that captured everyone. The orchestra was professional, precise and complemented the stage perfectly. From the songs to the dramatic scene changes, the music consistently provided the right mood and created the right atmosphere. Oliver! was truly outstanding and of a professional calibre that will hopefully become a norm here in Luxembourg.
