Warm your heart, and your soul with the perfect family musical, “Oliver!,” presented by CenterStage and Physician’s Center for Beauty October 22-November 8.
Based on Charles Dickens’ classic Oliver Twist, “Oliver!” tells the story of a young orphan boy who wanted more. From the orphanage to the mean streets of London, the ever-optimistic Oliver strives to survive through thick and thin meeting a host of memorable characters such as Nancy, Fagin, Bill Sikes and the Artful Dodger along the way. Dramatic, engagingly powerful and ultimately uplifting, “Oliver!” is the unforgettable, feel good story of a remarkable boy searching for love and acceptance.
The 1962 original Broadway production won three Tony awards and the popular 1968 film won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Lionel Bart’s lush, magical score is full of irresistible songs including “Food Glorious Food,” “Consider Yourself,” “You’ve Got to Pick a Pocket or Two,” “I’d Do Anything,” “As Long As He Needs Me,” “Where Is Love” and many more.
CenterStage’s production will feature a cast of over 45 local actors ranging in age from 8 to 70. The title role of Oliver will be played by Charlie Norman. He will be joined by Riley McNerny as the Artful Dodger, both making their CenterStage debut. Starring in the pivotal role of Fagin will be Michael Drury who CenterStage audiences may remember as Dr. Craven in “The Secret Garden,” the corrupt Lawyer, Callahan in “Legally Blonde “or most recently as the Adult Male in “Spring Awakening.” Filling out the cast will be Jessica Adamson as Nancy (Mrs Walker in “Tommy”, Doralee in ”9to5 the Musical,” Ado Annie in “Oklahoma!”) and Brian Bowles as Bill Sikes (Mark in “RENT,” Scarecrow in “The Wizard of OZ,” Little Mary Sunshine in “Chicago”).
“ ‘Oliver’ is one of my favorite musicals in the classic genre. Dickens’ characters are complex and interesting and Bart’s score is one of the best.” stated Artistic Director, John R. Leffert. “I last directed ‘Oliver’ in 2007 for MTL at the Iroquois Amphitheatre. That production still holds as a favorite of mine. I look forward to taking a journey with these rich characters again as we bring this show to life at CenterStage.”
CenterStage is also partnering with Yum! Brands Foundation and Dare to Care Food Banks throughout the run of “Oliver!” with a “Food, Glorious Food” Drive. Donations of non-perishable food items will be accepted at all performances to benefit Dare to Care and the Jewish Family and Career Services Food Pantry.
CenterStage and Physician’s Center for Beauty’s production of “Oliver!” opens on Thursday, October 22 and runs through Sunday, November 8. Tickets cost $20 in advance or $22 at the door and can be purchased over the phone by calling 502-459-0660 or online at www.CenterStageJCC.org. Don’t miss this award-winning, heart-warming musical that is perfect for the whole family. Order your tickets today as it is sure to sell out.