We joined a group of our readers on a trip to see Oliver! at the Gielgud Theatre in London’s West End. Here’s what they thought of the show…
Courtesy of Delfont Mackintosh Theatres, a group of Group Leisure & Travel readers had the chance to see the sensational Oliver! in the West End on 16th September.
Lionel Bart’s timeless musical based on Charles Dickens’ novel Oliver Twist has been revived for a new generation by Cameron Mackintosh, directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne.
Since opening in 2024, the production has earned huge acclaim and five star reviews, and it’s clear to see the GLT readers agree with plenty of glowing responses of their own.
“Seeing the adults around us singing, clapping and knowing every word shows how much Oliver! is loved by us all.”
Olivia Goodfellow, Enfield Social Events Group
Kelly Lywood from NK Holidays said: “The songs are brilliant and unforgettable, driving the energy of the story from the very first scene.
“Paired with a mesmerising set that beautifully brings Victorian London to life, the production moves at a breathless pace. It moves so quickly that the show feels over all too soon, leaving you thoroughly entertained and wishing it wouldn’t end.”
Beryl Edwards of Wayfairer also complimented the clever staging, adding: “I had seen the show many many years ago and this was a fresh updated version which was very good in all aspects.
“Even though quite a narrow stage, changes in scenery were very slick and quick causing no breaks. All the cast were amazing and vocals really good. A real feel good show.”
Carol Gower, GTO for CBA Millennium Outings, said: “The show was so beautifully choreographed, the staging cleverly designed, and the performers gave us an excellent evening’s entertainment. The younger members of the cast were so polished… there were no weak links anywhere.”
Oscar Conlon-Morrey, who typically plays Mr Bumble, was standing in for Simon Lipkin as Fagin on the night and his performance was without a doubt the highlight for most readers.
Anita Gardner from U3A Basingstoke called the show “loud, joyous and energetic” and said: “The standout for me was Fagin. I love the songs this character has & he delivered them with charm & comedy – some bits were very modern!”
“I think summed up in one word, the production was mesmerising!”
Tricia Wood, HSS
Jackie Ames, group organiser of Unity 70 agreed, saying: “I thought the show was terrific, especially Oscar Conlon-Morrey’s spin on Fagin, loved him! It works so well on an intimate stage like that, close to the action. Nancy (played by Ava Brennan) had such a powerful voice, and all the youngsters were a joy to watch.”
Part of the fun of being in the audience of Oliver! was not just admiring the performances on stage, but being able to join in with the many songs we all know and love. Jackie added: “It was really hard to not sing along with all the numbers, they’re so well known.”
The sentiment was echoed by Eileen Booker of Booker Trips, who said: “The show was really good - particularly Oscar Conlon-Morrey who played Fagin - he was fantastic. It was great to see a show with such memorable songs that are all well-loved and so well performed.”
Olivia Goodfellow from Enfield Social Events Group summed up the musical’s lasting legacy: “Seeing the adults around us singing, clapping and knowing every word shows how much Oliver! is loved by us all.”
With a timeless score, including Food Glorious Food, Consider Yourself, You’ve Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two, I’d Do Anything, Oom Pah Pah, As Long As He Needs Me and many more, the Olivier, Tony and Oscar-winning masterpiece brings to life Dickens’ ever-popular story of the boy who asked for more.
A big thanks to Delfont Mackintosh for providing the free tickets to GLT readers, many of whom left inspired and are already planning to return with their group.
Performances of Oliver! at Gielgud Theatre are currently booking until 14th March 2027. Discounted tickets are available for groups of ten or more at oliverthemusical.com.
