THE Parish Players always leave their audiences wanting more, but this was especially so in their energetic and touching performance of “Oliver” at Tockington Village Hall.

The whole cast gave strong performances led by Timothy Mitchell in the title role. With his beautiful singing, crystal clear diction and sensitive acting, he gave a most winning performance. All the two dozen children involved captivated the audience with real commitment to their parts; they played both workhouse brats and Fagin’s gang. Their discipline, energy, enthusiasm and excellent singing would be the envy of many an adult.

The children were well-matched by an equally vibrant chorus, who not only shouldered several roles, but also performed some very creditable part singing. Their movement and dance work reflected the expertise of choreographer Jill Harris – well versed in the demands of the small stage.

The line-up of actors in the leading roles was consistently impressive. Pompous Mr Bumble (Phil Savage) with his comic timing and his heartless Widow Gorney (Gill Olewicz) made a ridiculous and ruthless partnership. Mr and Mrs Sowerberry (Richard Newley and Lesley Clarke) were gorgeously ghoulish. A newcomer, Annabelle Leicester played their daughter, who joined in the taunting of Oliver with Noah Claypole, played with real panache by Callum Mortlock.

The Artful Dodger (Alexander Morris) would certainly have been uncatchable! Here was a really energetic performance! Maedene Webb brought a real warmth and vitality to the part of Bet. The trio of Fagin (Mike Jones) Bill Sykes (Dan Phillips) and Nancy (Louise Luft) created some wonderfully tense, sparky moments on stage. All had superb voices and a real sense of professionalism as we were treated to those famous numbers “As long as he needs me”, “I’m reviewing the situation” and “My name”.

All the music was most ably supported and sensitively played by the two pianos and percussion led by Chloe Allsopp Jones whose musical direction really captured the energy and melodrama of the piece. This was echoed in everything, from the lighting (Richard Churchill), well-chosen and varied Victorian costume (Gill Olewicz) and a set that not only moved seamlessly through the many scenes, but also conveyed the chaos and contrasts of Dickensian London. Andy Black (Designer) would have been proud of Keith, Brian and Rod who worked so well for him during his illness.

With a long string of successful shows, director Linda Evans knows how to pick the right production and get her team to positively shine. However, this time there was one particular star who stood out in the firmament of talent; Morris the Dog. So Linda has proved once again, that to keep a company alive and kicking, work with wonderful children – and animals!

Barbie Davies