Theatre Review: Oliver Twist, Tobacco Factory Theatres

Summary

Rating: ★★★★★

Running Dates: Friday 1st December - 21st January 

Where to see it: Tobacco Factory Theatres

Duration: 2 hrs (including interval)

Keywords: Creative, Dynamic, Satirical

Review

Oliver…with a Twist! I think it is fair to say that you won’t know what to expect of this show, both before it starts and in the first few minutes. However, within no time at all, the performance comes to life and transforms before your eyes.

Oliver Twist is a Tobacco Factory Theatres production; previous TFT productions have been incredibly successful and I have no doubt that this year’s show will add to that. The performance was written and adapted by Adam Peck and directed by Heidi Vaughan, TFT’s new Artistic Director.

The show houses a small cast of seven members - one of which is an actor-muso, a term I have just learnt to mean acting as a cast member and musician in the same performance. This must be no mean feat, yet Alex Heane made it look like easy work. From the audience, it seemed as though Heane was independently operating the sound design for the show, whilst juggling guitar and vocals!

The other six cast members play a variety of roles within the story, and I really do mean variety! Tom Fletcher is utterly mesmerising in his roles of Edwin, Martha and Dodger. Each character is incredibly nuanced and Fletcher puts his heart and soul into all. 

In fact, the same goes for all of the cast. It is demonstrably clear that the cast feel passionate about this show and their performance - something that is not always obvious in higher-budget productions. 

I must also mention Beverly Rudd who gives an incredible performance as Fagin. Rudd is a very talented actress, as can be seen from her long list of credits, including on our TV screens! Her comedic timing, interaction with the audience and physical comedy is…*mwah*...chef’s kiss!

As the performance begins, we are given our first creative Act Break followed by introductions to Edwin, Agnes and, of course, Oliver. The performance takes place in The Round of the TF and the cast members make efficient use of the space. It must be difficult to include audience members from all angles, but I felt that this was done well.

We’re left in suspense at the interval as Oliver has been retrieved from Mrs Brownlow’s property by, infamous villain, Bill Sikes! After a glass of wine and a jammy dodger (nice touch, Tobacco Factory!), we’re back in the next Act as Oliver continues his fight to have a family. As always, there won’t be any major spoilers from me. All I will say is that the performance plays homage to the original book and film, whilst retaining its creative freedom.

The set design and costumes are small but mighty. The stage remains rather bare and minimal in order for us to focus on the story unfolding; the costumes, although simple, accurately embody Bristol and allows us to identify the characters swiftly. 

Overall, the performance was intelligent, creative and full of emotion. The balance was struck between the severity of the themes involved and the need for a comedic outlet. The production doesn’t take itself too seriously; it has the Panto charm without the cheese!

Oliver Twist brings the best bits from all genres - we have humour, audience participation, songs and music, dance performances, creative lighting, and more. There’s not much more I can say other than - go and watch! Don’t be a Scrooge (Dickens-pun intended)!

The show is running until the 21st of January so there is still plenty of time to grab your ticket!

Standout Quote or Moment: Tom Fletcher shouting “forget about Martha!!” had us in stitches (iykyk)

See If: you notice the lines taken from the OG Oliver!

Similar Plays: I’m actually stumped for suggestions - it was so unique!

Last Impression: An incredible performance, the cast and crew should be really proud!

Written by Chelsea Bartlett