By Noel Smith
The Cabrillo Stage production of Oliver! is a musical for the whole family. With 36 boys and girls giving it their all, the energy on stage is amazing! Add to that a cast of nonpareil performers in a story that (mostly) ends well, and you have a marvelous evening of entertainment.
The three juvenile leads, Teneya Carr (10) as Oliver, Devon DeLeon (14) as the Artful Dodger, and Bella Anderson (15) as Bet all are up to the challenge of bringing the musical version of Oliver all the energy, joy, and pathos it deserves. Teneya’s clear voice does justice to the score singing “Where is Love” and “Consider Yourself” as does his energy and innocence brings to the part of Oliver.
Cabrillo Stage is indeed blessed to have some of our favorite people return to Aptos for this Production. Andrew Ceglio as Fagin brings his unique ability to create all the little but distinct mannerisms that make this complex Dickensian character come to life. Add to that his superlative singing and dancing (“You’ve Got to Pick a Pocket or Two” and “Reviewing the Situation”) he can dominate the stage whenever his part calls for it.
Brianna Buxton as Nancy sings and dances her way into your heart with the joys of “It’s a Fine Life” with Bet, “I’ll Do Anything” with the Artful Dodger, and of “Oom-Pah-Pah” and then with the emotional appeal and impending tragedy of “As Long as He Needs Me.” Bella Anderson as Nancy’s younger sister and shadow, Bet, gleefully follows her singing and dancing.
The menacing and murderous Bill Sykes is played by Nicholas Ceglio, Andrew’s brother. His demeanor does justice to the part as the crowds part before him (“My Name”) to get out of his way.
Kevin High as Mr. Bumble and Nancy Williams as the Widow Corney run the Orphanage and provide a bit of romantic comedy (“I Shall Scream!”) before Mr. Bumble gets what’s coming to him.
Oliver! is a British musical, with music and lyrics by Lionel Bart based upon the novel Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens. The musical premièred in London in 1960, enjoying a long run, a successful Broadway production in 1963, and was made into a musical film in 1968. At the 41st Academy Awards in 1969, Oliver! won six, including Awards for Best Picture, and Best Director for Carol Reed. At the 26th Golden Globe Awards the film won two Golden Globes for Best Film – Musical or Comedy, and Best Actor – Musical or Comedy for Ron Moody.
The musical opens in the workhouse, as the half-starved orphan boys and girls are entering the enormous dining room for dinner. They are fed only gruel, but find some solace by imagining a richer menu in the opening number, “Food Glorious Food.” After finishing his meal Oliver gathers up the courage to approach Mr. Bumble to ask for… more. “More!” shouts Mr. Bumble… and the story begins.
With a talented cast of 67, a marvelous score, Jon Nordgren as Musical Director and Conductor, Dustin Leonard as Director and stagecraft that is only possible in a modern facility such as the Crocker Theater, you don’t want to miss Oliver! You will leave the theater wanting… MORE!