Oliver is a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’s novel, Oliver Twist, written in 1838, a year after Queen Victoria began her reign. The novel, set in 19th century London many years before child labor laws were a consideration, is a story of a young homeless boy who escapes the hardships of the workhouse only to be taken in by a den of thieves. Dickens’s tale of childhood innocence beset by evil shocked readers when it was first published. Lionel Bart, the man behind the musical adaptation, has used poetic license in making his characters more audience-friendly and appropriate to modern times. The result is a slate of memorable songs and welcome humor that appeals to audiences of all ages.

The cast and crew of the IMS production of Oliver did a fabulous job setting the mood and filling the auditorium with the melodies of the classic musical. Congratulations to all involved.