I HAVE to hold my hands up and confess that although I have lived in Okehampton for almost nine years I hadn't actually seen The Courtenay Players in action before.

Over the years, I have been fortunate to see three professional productions of Lionel Bart's musical 'Oliver'. I am a real fan of the film and I have directed a few of the musical numbers in review style performances.

In my mind it is an ambitious undertaking for any amateur company so as I sat in the Charter Hall I really wasn't sure what to expect.

As the lights dimmed, the familiar opening bars filled the hall but not from an orchestra, show band or backing tracks but from just a piano and drum kit which I feel was very in-keeping with the piece, supporting the vocals of the entire company and at times was extremely haunting.

Director John Davey must be commended for making the best use of what is a fairly tight space for a large cast, keeping set and props to a minimum and bringing the varied scenes of 1850s London to life within the limitations of the stage which was managed well by Stan Stormont.

I saw the show on the opening night and to that end there was air of first night nerves, in particular scenes which took a while to warm up, but it certainly wasn't to the detriment of the overall production.

A number of the parts were being shared by two actors performing alternate nights and there were two teams of youngsters playing the workhouse children/ Fagin's Gang and John gave ample opportunity for these young chorus members to shine. 

I am never a fan of reviews that single out individual performances especially in a production like this that was so community spirited and everyone played an important role, but I just can't help but mention a few of my favourite performances.

Sandra Ausden in fine voice played a perfect Widow Corney, Gary Ayley and Caroline Ayley were very amusing as Mr and Mrs Sowerberry, Karen Saunders with her emotional rendition of 'As Long As He Needs Me', Ryan Harnell's physicality as the Artful Dodger was captivating and John Stormont played a more than a little bit convincing Bill Sykes (although his Brother William, who played Charlie Bates, said he didn't need to do much acting!)

It was great to hear 'My name' being sung as it is often left out of productions and certainly was omitted from the film although by all accounts was actually filmed. Last but not least I must mention assistant director, Perry Vallance, who found plenty of light and shade in his portrayal of Fagin.

The radio microphones caused a few technical problems and in my opinion I feel the cast could have managed very well without them and although some of the singing wasn't as honed as it could have been this rawness seemed to add a certain endearing quality to the piece. 

I know first hand exactly how much hard work and energy goes into a production of this nature and my hearty congratulations go out to the whole company and creative team for keeping theatre alive and kicking in Okehampton.

The audience's reaction as the curtain fell said it all, so after 'reviewing the situation'  I sincerely look forward to their next offering!

Rob Pudner Entertainingly Different