Lionel Bart's exuberant musical Oliver! takes the stage in Carson City on weekends, May 10-19. The Western Nevada Musical Theatre Company’s production of “Oliver! plays in seven performances at the Carson City Community Center.
A Tony Award-winning classic, Oliver! is the musical retelling of Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist. The story tells of a child who is sold by a London orphanage because he asked for more food. Oliver eventually escapes to the streets of London, finding adventure and a loving home.
The production is animated with high-spirited dance numbers and filled with unforgettable tunes, including "Pick-a-pocket,""Where is Love,""Consider Yourself," and "As Long As He Needs Me." Performed by a cast of 40 and accompanied by a professional orchestra, Oliver! is family entertainment at its best.
Starring Patrick Hardy as Fagin, who returns to play the role after multiple standing-ovation performances in the company's 1994 production, the show also features Logan Chapman as Oliver and Brynn Garrett as Nancy. Stephanie Arrigotti produces and directs. Gina Kaskie-Davis is the choreographer.
Calling the casting performances "outstanding" and the all-ages actors "tremendously talented," Arrigotti said it is rare to have so many try out for the main roles and all of the actors being equally qualified.
"The blessing we have with this production — and it is a blessing — is those who were not selected for the larger roles are playing the smaller ones and they are playing them exceptionally well," Arrigotti said. "The entire cast is filled with shining stars — from the main roles, to the speaking roles and, of course the singing. We're fortunate to have the kind of remarkable talent we have with Oliver! with these kids bringing in such great enthusiasm."
The idea to bring Oliver! to the stage was that of choreographer Gina Kaskie-Davis who had asked Arrigotti to bring it to the stage because of its themes, its cast of unforgettable characters, and because it is a universal favorite among legions of theater-goers.
"I'm very fortunate to be able to work with as many talented children and adults," Kaskie-Davis said. "They work well together making the choreography that much better."
Performances are on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. - May 10, 11, 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m. and May 12, 18 and 19 at 2 p.m. To purchase tickets, go here and click on "Buy Tickets." See the full program below.
Prices vary from $25 to $28 and there is no service charge. Season tickets are also currently available that include the international sensation, Les Misérables, playing in November.
For more information, phone (775) 445-4249. The Carson City Community Center is located at 851 E. William St., on the corner of Roop Street and U.S. Highway 50 East. Tickets will also be sold at the venue one hour before showtime.
