Times-Chronicle Staff
This is an exciting week in Oliver as live theatre makes its return to the Venables Theatre courtesy of high school drama students.
The Southern Okanagan Senior Secondary production of Oliver! The Musical opens on Thursday, March 10 at 7 p.m. Lionel Bart’s musical version of the Charles Dickens’ classic runs from March 10 to 12.
The SOSS production will take you back in time to London in the 1850’s. The story is about a starving orphan boy who dares to ask for more! The young boy is consequently sold to an undertaker who he quickly runs away from. The main character (Oliver) played by Kai Allen finds himself in London where he meets the charismatic Artful Dodger, played by Ava Podmorow. Dodger introduces Oliver to Fagin, played by Kael Koteles, who is the leader of a band of thieves. The shenanigans unfold from there.
The songs in this musical are lively and familiar. There are also some heart-wrenching numbers that leave you feeling forlorn. In the end, love and hope prevail.
The students of SOSS, under the direction of Alison Podmorow and musical director of Lisa Ante, have been hard at work since November. The cast includes 30 students, and the crew is comprised of 20 adults. It is once again a huge undertaking.
In addition to the main shows, there is also a matinee on Saturday, March 12 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at SOSS.
