It has been decades since I last saw Oliver! — a memory that takes me right back to Toowoomba City Hall — and sitting in Laycock Street Community Theatre watching Gosford Musical Society’s latest production felt like reconnecting with an old friend. Lionel Bart’s score is packed with songs that have woven themselves into the fabric of musical theatre history, and hearing them live again was a warm, nostalgic reminder of why this show continues to endure.

The story, adapted from Dickens, remains a dark tale of poverty, exploitation and survival, wrapped in melodies that somehow make the grit sparkle. With a company this large, the task of steering the narrative is no small feat, and Director Melody Thornburn had no shortage of talent to manage. At times, the storytelling lost its way, though the warmth and sincerity of the cast carried the emotional through-line and kept the audience invested.

Musically, the production soared. Under the ever-talented baton of Kimberly Gilbert, the orchestra was tight and confident, supporting the singers without overwhelming them. Ensemble numbers rang out with polish and clarity — a clear tribute to vocal coach Jess Ferraro. Harmonies were secure, diction crisp, and there was an impressive consistency across such a large company.

Choreography by Nicole Seggie and Raechelle Walter showcased not only traditional musical theatre flair but also the gymnastic prowess of some of the younger cast members. The movement injected energy into big numbers and kept the stage visually alive. Cody Swansbra’s versatile set design enabled fluid transitions, with subtle, smaller changes that helped each location feel distinct. A special mention must go to prop masters Amy and Peter McKim for the impressive dragon that drew audible delight — a reminder of the magic that thoughtful design can add to a production.

I attended the East End Cast, and what a promising group of triple threats they are. Community theatre on the Coast has a very bright future if these young performers are anything to go by. Their confidence, stamina and emotional connection to the material were admirable. Surrounding them was a generous, grounded adult ensemble and leads; you could genuinely see the mentorship unfolding on stage, with experienced performers supporting and nurturing their younger counterparts.

I had forgotten just how many villains populate this show. Eamon Moses as Mr Bumble and Marianne Powles as Mrs Corney established the tone with deliciously heightened character work. Rob Logan and Simone George’s Sowerberrys leaned into the grotesque humour, stepping the menace up another notch. Lee Fleming’s Bill Sikes was every inch the apex predator — brooding and dangerous.

Steve Burchill delivered a comedy masterclass as Fagin. His “Reviewing the Situation” brought the house down, balancing charm and scheming in equal measure. Yet it was Eleanor Hannan’s Nancy who truly stole hearts. Backed by powerhouse vocals and emotional authenticity, she commanded every scene she entered. “As Long As He Needs Me” was the kind of performance that lingers long after the curtain falls.

And then, of course, Emmitt Ainsworth as Oliver Twist, supported beautifully by Lachlan King as The Artful Dodger, brought more than one tear to this hardened reviewer’s eye.

It is heartening to see community theatre continuing to champion the classics and breathe new life into them. Oliver! may be set in Victorian London, but in Gosford, it feels very much alive.

– The other Daniel Craig

Daniel Craig is an international performer and has established himself as a trusted theatre specialist on the Sydney Arts Scene. While he understands the technical side of theatre, Dan writes for the everyday theatregoer (unlike some of those more prominent publications). When not in the audience, he loves to travel the world and try new gins.

Oliver! runs for 2 hours 30 minutes (with a 20-min interval) and plays at the Laycock Street Community Theatre through 14 March 2026. Tickets are available through Laycock Street Theatre.

Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of Gosford Musical Society.
Image credit: James Beggs