OPENING on Friday, August 9, Lionel Bart’s hit show 'Oliver!' is the summer season musical production at Aberystwyth Arts Centre, with shows through to Saturday, August 31.

The large cast comprises professional musical theatre performers and local children and young people, bringing new life to the classic Charles Dickens novel of 'Oliver Twist'.

For many of the young people this will be their first experience of performing in a professional production.

The key central role of Oliver will be played by three local actors, Rhodri Jenkins, Charlie Longman and Mackenzie Lawlor; while that famous pick-pocket, the Artful Dodger, will be played by Anirudh Krishna and Sam Rolt.

These young actors all have extensive experience of acting in Aberystwyth and the Aberystwyth Arts Centre creative team is thrilled to showcase their talents in this production. Two children’s ensembles will also feature in the production, playing the many orphans of Fagin’s street gang, in a jam-packed and memorable show.

Two key members of the adult ensemble are Maeve Courtier-Lilley and Jordan Lloyd Jones, familiar local faces who have spent many years taking part in productions at the Arts Centre. With 'Oliver!' they’ll both be making their professional debuts ahead of embarking on the next stages of their continuing professional training.

The award-winning musical adaptation of the classic Dickens’ novel has some of the most memorable characters and songs ever to hit the stage including 'Consider Yourself', 'Who Will Buy' and 'Food Glorious Food'.

Local director Richard Cheshire returns to Aberystwyth Arts Centre to helm the production, 14 years after 'Oliver!' was his last summer show in 2005.

Returning to the show is Sam Ebenezer who played Oliver in 2005 and now played Noah; while another local face is Bethan Pearce as Charlotte.

Also joining the company are some familiar faces from Welsh theatre and TV, including Gillian Elisa, playing Widow Corney and Ieuan Rhys playing Mr Bumble. Both are known for long-running roles in 'Pobol y Cwm', and both boast a wealth of stage and musical experience.

Mr Brownlow will be played by John Lyons, most recognisable for his role as Det Sgt George Toolan in 'A Touch of Frost'; and with decades’ of theatrical experience, including seasons as part of the West End cast of 'The Mousetrap'.

Arts Centre director Dafydd Rhys said: “It’s fantastic that we’re able to present a summer season this year, and I’m really pleased that Richard has agreed to make a return, after directing so many successful shows in the past. We’re looking forward to a busy summer and to welcoming everyone to the Arts Centre.”

There are 7.30pm performances Tuesdays to Saturdays, and 2.30pm matinees on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, with a BSL interpreted performance at 2.30pm on August 22. Visit www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk or call the box office on 01970 623232 for tickets.