The Mitchell Area Community Theatre has begun their 2010-2011 season with a smash hit: Oliver!

Let me begin by saying that for those individuals who have not seen the production as of yet, there is only one weekend left to purchase tickets. Upon entering the theatre, the aura of the show is set by a simple setting of a bowl on a table. This imagery sets a simple yet poignant beginning to an interesting show. Director Devin Carey used this image to build upon the symbolism of the play; the play being the story of Oliver Twist, orphaned and alone in a workhouse in 19th century London and his feisty yet innocent encounters with the world around him.

To begin with, the set for this production was extraordinary. As a professional actor myself, I found myself wanting to explore the set, with its many doors, nooks and crannies, that transformed throughout the show from doors to crevices, to hovels of characters. This was built up on the sides to a bridge along the back of the stage. There were several levels for the actors to utilize along with props such as laundry lines and baskets. Within the center of this set piece, there is a revolving platform, and as it revolves it reveals three different venues; the tavern, the Brownlow’s Georgian home, and Fagan’s hovel whereby the band of pick pocketing boys reside. Carey outdid himself in his design, and as a performer himself, he knew what an actor needed to develop the story, and the characters.

Carey also did a wonderful job of forming an ensemble, as that is what a production truly is intended to be; a group of actors who work as a whole to tell a story. This production achieved this goal. The cast, young to old, were an ensemble of clear, focused proportions. Carey’s vision was obvious in his guiding of the cast to the fruition of a story that is true no matter what the time period: all humans look for love, respect and happiness in their lives.

The group of Workhouse Boys, who consisted of several young men, began the show with “Food Glorious Food”. The young men did an exemplary job of beginning the show with high energy and strong voices. It should be noted that while all the young men were well versed in their song and dance, one young man obviously stood out. Chase McClure, who is making his debut at ACT, was a believable youngster with his jaunty attitude and ne’er do well look. McClure blended naturally into his role as he never tried to take focus from the activity of stage, and was intent on the action of the show.

Mr. Bumble, played by Shawn McDonnell, was an intimidating character with his overall presence. The Widow Corney, portrayed by Tera McDonnell, set the scene as the proverbial nasty matron of the Workhouse. The banter between the two seemed stilted at times, as if they were vying for sole attention on stage. This attitude changed quickly and they became a tour de force for their scene of “I Shall Scream” whereby Bumble is trying to woo the Widow into marriage. Bumble is exactly as his name states. He is a bumbling idiot who seeks to gain status through smarmy means. Bumble’s character also has a knack for breaking wind throughout the show, at the most inappropriate moments. This act of flatuation is funny as a character trait, but McDonnell needs to find the line of believability rather than use it as a stage gag. This will make it not only funny for when it does occur, but rather unexpected of the character.

Caelan Tirrel is a believable Oliver; whimsical, sweet and he obviously does not fit into the standard of the general orphan population. It is obvious that he is of a different blood, a different standard of breeding than the other lads. Tirrel plays Oliver with a sweet sincerity that makes you hope the best for him throughout the show. His vocality is strong and his intent is honest. Tirrel is on his way to becoming a strong actor.
Brett Farnham stole focus on stage with his wonderful character of Mr. Sowerberry. He was the perfect sketch of an undertaker, pale and foreboding. Tera McDonnell, double cast as Sowerberry’s wife as well as the Widow Corney was obnoxious as needed but her characterizations were the same for both Corney and Sowerberry. The change of costume and wig did not enhance her character. She was difficult to understand at times due to her raucous volumes, but played the overbearing wife to Sowerberry to a tee.

Nancy and Bet, played by Mary Tirrel and Hanna Varilek, were a wonderful twosome of the London female persuasion. Tirrel was honest in her love for Bet as well as Oliver and the need to nurture the innocent. She also built upon her caring for Bill Sykes, played by Bob Way. Bet was believable in her role of the best friend of Nancy. Bill Sykes is the character who is the ultimate 19th century pimp, thief and murderer. His voice was commanding and his look was formidable.

The character who held consistent strength throughout the show was that of Fagin, played by Michael Catalano. From the start, Catalano portrayed Fagin as the loving King of the Pickpockets. He nurtures his band of wayward boys, who love him in return. His conniving nature shines throughout the entire show. Catalano is engaging in his role and is captivating in his nature.

My personal favorite scene from this production has always been, “Who Will Buy?” It is a landscape of the different venues of London and the different stages of employment involved with personal happiness. The cast did a phenomenal job mixing the blend of voices and staging to accomplish the necessary look of a glorious day. It once again fortified my love for this specific scene.

The culmination of aspects such as costumes, set, lighting, and special effects made for a grand piece of entertainment. Overall, this story of Oliver Twist is a testimony to the strength of our community theatre. There is a positive atmosphere to our theatre and to this production. If this is an example of what the season holds, the Mitchell community is in for a wonderful treat. Kudos to the cast and crew of Oliver! “Consider Yourself” a success in your performance. You have a fabulous production and you should be very proud of your accomplishments! If you are interested in seeing the performance, there is one more weekend of performances at the Pepsi Cola Theatre, August 6th and 7th at 7:30pm and August 8th at 2:00pm. Tickets can be purchased at the Antique Mall and prior to the production at the theatre.