Details

Classic story of crime, poverty, vice and a young innocent orphan in London. Some of the most celebrated villains in English literature (Artful Dodger, Bill Sykes, Fagin). The central theme is the link between poverty and crime. Beyond that it explores the way society treats its weakest members. Dickens' style is highly theatrical, switching between the almost documentary to the comic, from action-packed narrative to emotional drama and indeed he himself gave dramatic readings of much of OLIVER TWIST to huge audiences in Britain and the USA. TNT sweep away the sentimentality of so many versions and present the story through the eyes of Fagin as he stands on the gallows awaiting execution. The story is his last attempt at justifying his life of crime. The audience too must answer if he was indeed at fault. Is he a criminal or a victim? Does he care for his boy thieves or does he exploit them? In addition to powerful drama, comedy and fast-moving action, the production has been highly praised for its capella score by the composer Thomas Johnson whose production of HAMLET is currently on tour in more than 20 countries. The action is developed through integrated song, using complex and exciting five part harmony.

Creatives/Company

Book by: Charles Dickens
Presented by: TNT Theatre Britain
Adapted by(s): Paul Stebbings, Phil Smith
Music: Thomas Johnson