City Newspaper Archives - 2/2007
RCT's "Oliver"
Published by Linda Kostin on Feb 06, 2007
It takes a special musical to come between my 13-year-old son and his Xbox 360. "Oliver? Is that the one with that guy Fagan?" he asked. You betcha. The next thing I knew, he was off to preview Rochester Children's Theatre's production of Oliver! with his 10-year-old sister and me.
Based on Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist, it's two steps forward and three steps back as young Oliver makes his way from a wretched orphanage, to Fagan's gang of pre-adolescent pick-pockets, to life among the gentry. Rebecca Rand and Colin Nims, both Rochester 10-year-olds, share the role of Oliver.
The multi-level set and Victorian era costumes were a big hit. "Everything looks realistic. There are missing boards in the buildings and the lights look like old lamps through the windows. Plus Nancy's dress has splotches on the bottom. She really looks like she's poor," my son said.
By intermission, my daughter and I were shamelessly belting out songs from the catchy score in the ladies' room. "Food, Glorious Food is my favorite song from a musical ever!" enthused Julia. "I also like how kids are really part of the show, not just put off to the sides." The cast includes more than 70 local children.
Directed by Brett Smock, Oliver! is recommended for ages 7 and up. Show times are Friday, February 9, at 7 p.m., and February 10, 11, 17, and 18 at 2 p.m. at Nazareth College Arts Center, 4245 East Avenue. Tickets are $15 at the box office, 389-2170. For more information visit www.rochesterchildrenstheatre.org.
Article Photos
COURTESY: Rochester Children's Theater
