"Oliver!" at Beck Center

“Please, sir, I want some more.” (Graphic Design by Pat Miller)

Beck Center Youth Theater closes its 66th season with "Oliver!" on May 15–24 on the Mackey Main Stage. Featuring 56 Beck Center students, the musical will have audiences following the adventures of the young orphan, Oliver Twist, as he explores the streets of London. Show times are 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. A special student matinee performance will take place at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 21. Tickets are on sale now.

Based on the classic novel by Charles Dickens, this family-favorite musical includes the very famous quote, “Please, sir, I want some more.” With music, lyrics, and book by Lionel Bart, this adaptation begins as Oliver runs away from the London warehouse where he was raised. Alone on the streets of London, he is soon recruited into a gang of juvenile pickpockets. Unaware of such unlawful activities, Oliver discovers that he is unfit for a life of crime. Join Oliver on his quest for family as memorable songs such as “Food Glorious Food” and “Consider Yourself” are brought to life by our talented young cast.

Patrick Ciamacco directs the cast of Beck Center students who range in ages from 6 to 17. “With a cast made up of children and teens, "Oliver!" provides each of our actors a chance to shine in his own way,” remarked Ciamacco. “It's not often you find a story that allows so many kids to play a character their own age, while allowing the teens to fully explore some deeper level character study.” Together, this cast and director aim to create a realistic, emotional, and entertaining version of Dickens' classic tale.

This production of "Oliver!" is musically directed by Matthew Dolan and choreographed by Rebecca Frick. Tickets are $12 for adults/seniors and $10 for children (18 and under) and may be purchased online at beckcenter.org or by calling 216-521-2540, x10.

Beck Center is located at 17801 Detroit Avenue in Lakewood. Free onsite parking is available. The 2014–2015 Youth Theater season is sponsored by First Federal Lakewood.