The Gielgud Theatre has premiered its vibrant revival of Oliver! Producer Cameron Mackintosh and director/choreographer Matthew Bourne have collaborated on the staging of ‘Oliver!’ for over 30 years, breathing new life into Lionel Bart’s 1960 classic. Once again, their latest production is a delight for modern audiences.
Oliver! tells the story of a young orphan boy, Oliver Twist (Cian Eagle-Service), who escapes a harsh workhouse and ends up in the seedy streets of Victorian London. Taken in by the Artful Dodger (Billy Jenkins), Oliver joins a gang of young pickpockets led by the charming yet sinister Fagin (Simon Lipkin). Wrapped up in criminal dealings with the ruthless Bill Sikes (Aaron Sidwell), Fagin tries his best to avoid Sikes’s wrath and keep Nancy (Shanay Holmes), Bill’s girlfriend, out of harm’s way.
Quickly caught by police, Oliver meets the benevolent Mr. Brownlow who offers him the chance of a better life. But with Oliver safe, would he now snitch on his former crew? Sikes goes into a frenzy, desperate to avoid detection and willing to risk everything.
Oliver is one of Charles Dickens’ many tales renowned for its social commentary. Vividly depicting the struggles of class and gender inequality, child labour, and corruption, it’s no surprise that Oliver has the potential to be bleak. Yet Mackintosh and Bourne have struck a great balance, keeping things lighter while maintaining the story’s integrity.
I was pleasantly surprised to see bright costumes, big smiles, and riotous physical comedy. Oscar Conlon-Morrey stood out as the workhouse owner, Mr Bumble, in his hilarious romantic escapades with Widow Corney (Katy Secombe). Lipkin’s humour also strongly connected with the audience, breaking the fourth wall and making Fagan feel modern.
The high continued with the incredible numbers on stage, with dazzling choreographies over multiple levels of the revolving stage. All the big hitters were included, with Food Glorious Food, Consider Yourself’, and Oom-Pah-Pah having everyone beaming.
With all the excitement, the more still moments were made even more impact. The haunting harmonies of Who Will Buy’ were a surprise favourite, showcasing a mesmerising vocal performance from the ensemble. And I won’t soon forget Shanay Holmes, who stole the show with her rendition of As Long As He Needs Me.
Eagan-Service made a fantastic Oliver, showing versatility from humour to heartache and an excellent voice. Jenkins and Lipkin supported him perfectly as The Artful Dodger and Fagin, having strong chemistry and banter that kept the whole show snappy.
Oliver differentiated itself from previous iterations in its casting choices. A younger Fagin injected a new burst of energy but made his fears about getting old feel less pressing. While Fagin’s youth made Bill feel less physically intimidating, the two actors still played out their contentious relationship well. And yes, Fagin losing his riches in the river was still devastating!
The Gielgud’s Oliver! remains gritty but bright, with a visually stunning set and fabulous costuming. The story of heartache and hope feels rich against the warm and intricate backdrop. Drawn into the scenes, the audience feels like any other wayward towns member, all invested in Oliver!
A high-energy production that delivers big on heart and spectacle, ‘Oliver!’ at the Gielgud Theatre is a vibrant, family-friendly watch. The fresh take on this classic is one to watch, leaving you humming all the way home.
NEED TO KNOW: Now booking until Sunday 28 September 2025 @oliveronstage
