Waitaki App reporter Zara Murphy was treated to the final dress rehearsal of the Musical Theatre Ōamaru production of Oliver! and offers her thoughts for those on the fence about buying a ticket.

“Please sir, can I have some more?”

I was thrilled to attend the final dress rehearsal for Oliver! - Lionel Bart’s much-loved musical, based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel Oliver Twist.

Musical Theatre Oamaru president and show production manager Melissa (Liss) Yockney, playing usher to the intimate audience, was simmering with a quiet excitement.

I asked Liss, “Why Oliver?” She replied, “Why not?”

But the appeal was in the ability to accommodate a diverse cast.

One hundred and twenty people auditioned for around 80 parts, with approximately 50 cast members under the age of 18 - ranging in age from 7 through to 67.

The group has been in rehearsals since March, and you can imagine the laughter and fun that went on behind the scenes, not to mention the dedication and effort from all involved.

The scene is set with a rousing intro from the finely-tuned orchestra. Sound bellows out, stirring a curious excitement for what's to come, and the goosebumps start.

The 16-piece orchestra is made up of Ōamaru and Waimate locals.

The first three rows of seating are removed to accommodate the musicians. The last time the orchestra pit was used was in 2018 for Mamma Mia!.

Krissy McGeown as the "tart with a heart", Nancy. Photo: Supplied/Facebook

The cast wastes no time in capturing the audience; the show is high energy and action-packed.

Food, Glorious Food performed by the Workhouse Boys, is the opener and introduces some key characters.

Oliver, played by Quinn Conlan, makes her musical debut in the titular role and is instantly endearing as the sweet, innocent orphan boy, her angelic voice captivating the audience.

Where is love? is a moving standout, reminding the audience of the child’s sad upbringing.

Jemima Riley-Duddin wows as the magnetic and charming Artful Dodger - a vivacious character, perfectly cast and clad in an eye-catching outfit to match.

Described as an “elderly rogue” and the patriarch of a rag-tag street family, David Blair, played a wickedly ‘good’ Fagin.

Performing since 1981, his solo rendition of Reviewing the Situation, made it clear he felt at home in the spotlight.

Consider Yourself unprepared for the powerhouse that is Krissy McGeown playing Nancy. A luscious lady in red, she lights up the stage with her presence and voice. Expect thrills, chills and spills.

The cast of Oliver!. Photo: Supplied/Facebook

Lighting was skillfully used to create the mood in each scene and magnify key moments, while the set design was magnificent and masterfully executed - the main piece on stage cleverly utilised in every way throughout the show.

It’s no easy feat to choreograph a varied cast of more than 80 members, but Anna Stuart, with her 35-plus years of experience, and Shannon Bond as her assistant, accomplished something wonderful.

Anna says it's the music, the lyrics and storyline that inform the movement.

Waimate-based director Helen Horsnell was looking for something fresh, not seen before in Ōamaru, to showcase our local talent, and I was on the edge of my seat for every splendid minute!

Expect to laugh, cry and experience a shock or two.

Who will buy….their tickets to the show with a Twist?

Oliver! is running at the Ōamaru Opera House from 10-19 July.