‘Consider yourself at home’ and ‘Consider yourself one of the family’ are lyrics sung by the Artful Dodger to beckon the orphan Oliver into Fagin’s gang. Likewise, the St George Theatre Company entices us and our families with the successfully high standards of their inaugural production.

The large cast has been well directed through the challenging pace and variety of scenes which OLIVER! demands. Inventive choreography and direction recreate the well-known ‘Oom-Pah-Pah’, ‘You’ve Got to Pick a Pocket or Two’ and ‘Consider Yourself’. Street sellers pitching wares to the rich in ‘Who Will Buy?’ is poignantly expressed.

Principal characters of all ages relevantly and consistently realise their roles. Jack Paterson is a consummate Artful Dodger. Oliver Noakes as Oliver is clear-voiced and especially successful in the communication of the lost and vulnerable parts of his character.

A strong mention goes to Charmaine Gibb’s strong characterisation of Nancy, and her singing of the role. Her character development is well measured and is skilfully linked to Bart’s music. Bill Sikes was formidably sung and menacingly portrayed by Andrew Symes. The moments around his death however are somewhat rushed.

Osman Kabbara’s portrayal of Fagin is faithful to the classic model, but still has an engaging freshness. ‘Reviewing the Situation’ in Act 2 is well delivered. The adult caricatures of Mr Bumble and Widow Corney, as well as the Sowerberry couple, are extremely well drawn.

Perhaps even more vocal strength and raucous hunger is needed in the opening ‘Food, Glorious Food’. However, the movement of the sizable youth ensemble around the impressive set is a striking beginning alone. There is also much more gruel to be eaten through the run of the show.

This is a major classic suitable for all the family. It is supported by a strong orchestra. St George Theatre Company, “we’ve taken to you so strong”. Can we have more?

OLIVER! runs at the Hurstville Entertainment Centre until Sunday March 10, 2013.

© Paul Nolan

1st March, 2013

Tags: Sydney Stage Reviews- OLIVER!, St George Theatre Company, OLIVER!, Hurstville Entertainment Centre, Jack Paterson, Oliver Noakes, Charmaine Gibb, Andrew Symes, Osman Kabbara, Sydney Arts Guide, Paul Nolan