ST IVES MUSIC AND DRAMA SOCIETY : OLIVER

Director : Scott Andrews  Musical Director : Sarah Phelps

This is a deservedly popular show but it requires a lot of hard work to get it right, and Director Scott Andrews had certainly provided that. Having designed and constructed the complex and effective scenery required for such a difficult venue as the Burgess Hall, he had the added challenge of working with two sets of young people and an appealing dog. The end result was very good. The children were all enthusiastic and committed and had obviously also worked hard at their individual scenarios. I attended two performances and was very impressed with both Peter Maylor and Grace Mead as Oliver and the contrasting interpretations of Dodger by Charlie Lake and Joe Davies. Also the two Charlottes and Bets. In the more adult roles, there were no weak links with particularly memorable moments from Simon and Amanda Maylor as Mr Bumble and Mrs Corney and the Sowerberrys (Andrew Mannering and Ceri Walker).

Nathan Davey had a nicely judged scene as Noah Claypole. In the key roles, Lucas Elkin was consistently menacing as Bill Sykes making it hard to appreciate Nancy’s adoration. However this was a strong performance in itself well-matched by Sarah Mead’s ebullient Nancy. In the central role of Fagin, Brian Perrett was again outstanding, working well with his youthful gang.  A very enjoyable and lively production.

Michael G Williamson

And another review from our local paper "The Town Crier"