Oliver! – Marie Clark Musical Theatre Company Review

Musical Theatre Arts Theatre  Friday 19 June 2026 This excellent production of Oliver! is much more than a re-staging of a well-known classic. As well as a celebration of the eternal power of live theatre to bring a truly joyful experience to those who attend, it is a vision of hope to see so many generations of artists working together. The Marie Clark Musical Theatre Company is to be congratulated for nurturing the nascent talents in such a young cast. The beautiful balancing act of mixing so many different age groups is not only achieved with grace and style, it is forged into a vital strength by this community ensemble. All the voices are equally vibrant and strong. Of course, the solos for the principal characters allow them to shine, and they grasp the opportunity with both vocal chords. Each in their unique way is a delight as they relish in releasing the full force of their emotional repertoire. Set in the seedy side of London in Dicken's time, violence is an integral part of this story. Recognising this, the co-director Lucy Trewin did not shy away from representing this brutality onstage, and the themes still echo into this century. The acting and drama are consistent with the other elements - the music and memorable songs – all being of the highest quality. The comic timing of the seasoned actors is wonderful to watch. This hilarious business provides the perfect foil for the ominous dangers lurking in the misty London streets. The principal players are too many to praise by name. They are all obviously happy to be 'one of the family.' Eloise Morriss as choreographer deserves a special mention to have so many diverse ages moving flawlessly together in full flight. Indeed, the vigour and variety of the dancing with its surprises is like the murmation of birds. And this includes a few who can hardly be school age! I should mention that I saw only the one 'cast,' there being two groups for the younger roles, which naturally gives the chance for even more children to gain experience. The two other co-directors have done a marvellous job in making this totally enjoyable.  The band assembled by Jaxon Joy sounds like a symphonic orchestra, with a rich range of instrumentation to accompany the cleverly varying songs. The chorus and supporting actors all manage to make their parts come completely alive and contribute to the success of this show. Overall it's well worth renewing your acquaintance with those songs you know, and re-discovering the ones you've maybe forgotten what food, glorious food they are for the soul/spirit. 5 stars David Cronin Oliver! continues at the Arts Theatre various times until Sat 27 June. Click HERE to purchase your tickets. #TheClothesline