NRHS Masquers musical production of "Oliver" opened to rave reviews Friday night. From the impressive set design to the singing and acting talents of the North Reading High School and Elementary students, theater goer's did not leave disappointed. "Oliver" was a magical performance that captured the spirit of Dickens' Victorian England with true period costumes.
When "Oliver" opened with a fun musical number to the song "Food, Glorious Food," we knew we were not going to be disappointed in the show. And we were not let down.
The musical, based on the Charles Dickens' classic, tells the story of Oliver Twist, played by Maddy Alter, a plucky orphan who lives in a workhouse with other orphaned boys, is sold for asking for food, escaped his horrid life living with the undertaker and runs away to London.
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At Paddington Green he is befriended by The Artful Dodger, played by Michela Prisco. The Artful Dodger convinces Oliver he is part of the family in the uplifting ensemble number "Consider Yourself." Oliver is introduced to the gang's leader, Fagin, played by Sam Barrette, who teaches Oliver how to "Pick a Pocket or Two."
In Fagin's Lair Oliver is introduced to the warm and caring Nancy, played by Neva Ventullo. We are treated to another fun musical ensemble to "I'll do Anything." But we learn there is a dark side to our pick-pocket gang in the villainous Bill Sykes, played by Owen DeCleene. On his first pick-pocket trip Oliver is caught by the law. Bill is worried that Oliver will tell the law where the thieves live. He sends Nancy to kidnap Oliver.
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The musical numbers mentioned here are just a small handful of the beautiful musical numbers performed in "Oliver." Be prepared to be moved by Nancy's "Where is Love." and stunned by the Street Sellers and Circus Ensemble's "Who Will Buy?" And so much more!
If you want to know how the story ends there are still three performances with many great seats still available. There is a matinee today, Saturday, Dec. 3, at 4:00 p.m. The final shows are next weekend, Friday, Dec. 9, at 7:30 pm and Saturday, Dec. 10, at 4:00 pm.
The Box Office will open one hour before each show. Please note the box office takes only check or cash.
Tickets can be purchased online at ticketstage.com.
Questions regarding tickets can be sent to nrperformingarts@gmail.com.
Tickets are $15 adult, $12 students, $10 senior citizens, and $5 age five and younger.
Handicapped seating is available both up front and in the rear of the theater.
For more information about this year’s musical please visit the Masquers website: http://masquers.weebly.com
