We take a look at what is being said about this revival of the musical, directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne.
Broadway World: ***** “That’s more for reflections for the journey home (and Oliver! never shies away from the hard edge of its source material). Before you do, you’ll be singing those unforgettable songs to yourself, reprising the spectacle of the dance routines in your mind’s eye and wondering whether it’s justifiable to rebook at this venue or for the Christmas run at the Gielgud Theatre in the West End. Yes, dare I say that you’ll “Be Back Soon?””
Portsmouth News: “Simon Lipkin makes a wonderful Fagin. While there is, perhaps, a suggestion of Captain Jack Sparrow in his characterisation there’s also a depth to him rather that just being The Comic Turn as is often the case with Fagin and the relationship between him and the gang – and particularly Billy Jenkins as The Artful Dodger – is beautifully realised. The moment at the very end, when all seems lost, and Fagin and Dodger walk off together into the sunset is a particularly nice touch.”
The Guardian: *** “Radical interpretation is not on order here, though. This is about old-school high-quality entertainment. It could be a Christmas show, or high-end panto (Sidwell is even booed as he takes his bows). For those who want it, this will not disappoint.”
WhatsOnStage: ***** “The creative team have genuinely breathed new life into this staple of British musical theatre. It’s a joyous celebration and a genuine feel-good show. It already has its West End transfer secured, so even if you think you are already too familiar with it, give it another go, you might just be surprised!”
The Telegraph: **** “Matthew Bourne and Cameron Mackintosh’s heartfelt West End-bound Chichester revival is guaranteed to put a spring in your step.”
Theatre & Tonic: **** “Rapturous and energetic, CFT’s revival of Oliver! feels completely fresh in its retelling of both story and characters and is the perfect production for both adults and children.”
The Stage: **** “Cameron Mackintosh’s revival of the classic Lionel Bart musical is fresh and vibrant in a production directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne.”
Sussex World: “Shanay Holmes’ spine-tingling As Long As He Needs Me, plus its reprise – heart-breakingly poignant, incredibly powerful and so so haunting. Extraordinary artistry.”
West End Best Friend: ***** “It is very rare that an out-of-town production hits all the right notes, but Oliver! really does! It is a show that will certainly become a crown jewel in the West End later this year. Beg, borrow or even better, pick-a-pocket to see this production – you won’t regret it!”
Musical Theatre Review: ***** “But the star of this production is undoubtedly Simon Lipkin’s Fagin. The performer has created a colourful melting pot of a Fagin with a hint of Roma, a touch of pirate – all the outsiders rolled into one. Lipin makes the character lovable, he interacts with the audience panto-style and is much less of a caricature than is often seen in this show. He is also given the chance, with some script additions, to explore the reasons for his behaviour. This updating is elegantly done.”
Theatre Cat: ” Fagin, though! Simon Lipkin is a revelation, free of both caricature and the merry familiar tributes to Ron Moody: he’s as vigorous and teasing as a standup, giving the rogue an air constantly conflicted, tremblingly scared of Sikes, waving away the klezmer violin moments, human and redeemable: his final appearance, arm in arm fatherly with the Artful Dodger, is unexpectedly moving. Aaron Sidwell’s Bill Sikes was unexpected too: his assured menace explodes into sudden violence, but more unsettling still is a curious edge of nasal camp in his voice. Shanay Holmes’ Nancy is tarty and larky, decent and deluded: when she wanders round the stage singing ” As long as he needs me” she seems to be searching , without much hope, for someone to agree with her fatal loyalty.”
British Theatre Guide: “But we’re not allowed to be that serious for too long as Simon Lipkin’s Fagin comes on the scene again. After the previous “You’ve got to Pick a Pocket or Two”, he is now “Reviewing the Situation” and wondering what he ought to do with the rest of his life away from crime. Every suggestion he thinks up has its problems, and he has to begin again—and Lipkin is a master of the timing, pauses, facial expressions and gestures which add to the comedy. Totally hilarious!”
Oliver! Continues to play at the Chichester Festival Theatre until the 7th September.