Classic tale told in Kerikeri

The classic musical Oliver! is coming to Kerikeri in July.

It’s a classic tale of tragedy, murder, adventure love and hope - and the Kerikeri Theatre Company can’t wait to perform it to Far North audiences.

Oliver! is scheduled for seven performances at the Turner Centre, from July 11 to 15. The family favourite musical based upon the novel by Charles Dickens features a cast of 46 locals aged from four to 70.

They’ll play a host of colourful characters including the Artful Dodger, Fagin, Bill Sykes, Old Sally and Dr Grimwig.

Spokesperson Malcolm

McMillan - who plays archetypal Englishman Mr Brownlow - says it’s a wonderful tale of adventure, and a search for love for young, orphaned Oliver as he navigates London’s underworld while searching for a family and a home.

‘‘The storyline will appeal to absolutely everybody young and old, because it’s got messages in there about good and evil, it’s got sadness but it’s got a warm outcome,’’ he says.

‘‘It takes you through Dickensian London with lots of famous songs that everyone would recognise....timeless favourites

and

Lucy Houtas, from Taipa, is all set to play Nancy. Originally from London, she studied at the London School of Musical Theatre. Kaikohe’s Will Henley, who plays Bill Sykes, has appeared in many Northland College musicals and attended Northland Youth Theatre.

The shows are at 7pm, with matinees on July 12 and July 15 at 2pm. Tickets $28 adults, $15 students/kids. Phone 09 407 0260 or visit turnercentre.co.nz