Lionel Bart's Oliver! at Jamf Theatre

Oliver! is a beloved musical based on Charles Dickens' classic novel, Oliver Twist. Set in the grimy underbelly of Victorian London, the story centers around Oliver, a young orphan who escapes a brutal workhouse and a cruel apprenticeship. Cast out on the streets, he falls in with a gang of petty thieves led by the cunning Fagin. Oliver, with his innocence and unwavering hope, finds himself in a world of crime and hardship.

Despite the harsh realities, Oliver finds a glimmer of friendship in Nancy, a kindhearted prostitute who takes pity on him. However, the world of Fagin and his gang is fraught with danger, and Oliver faces betrayal and exploitation. As he navigates this treacherous world, a wealthy gentleman named Mr. Brownlow takes notice of Oliver's plight, offering a chance at a better life.

Oliver's journey is filled with twists and turns. He's recaptured by Fagin and forced to participate in a daring robbery. The climax involves a tense chase and a dramatic rescue, revealing a long-held secret that changes Oliver's destiny forever. Oliver! is a captivating musical with a powerful score by Lionel Bart. Heartfelt songs like "Food, Glorious Food," the defiant "Consider Yourself" sung by Fagin's gang, and the hopeful "Where Is Love?" capture the emotions of the characters and the harsh realities of Oliver's world. The musical remains a crowd-pleaser, celebrating the power of hope, friendship, and the fight for a better life, even amidst hardship.