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The Cast of Lionel Bart’s Oliver! performed at Upchurch Village Hall in 1973. |
Just after building contractor E.C. Gransden Ltd had completed the village hall extension (Stage, under stage storage, meeting room etc) I was approached to organise an evening of entertainment to celebrate it’s opening and a committee was formed.
The original concept producing a concert using local talent was very quickly over taken by enthusiasm for producing a shortened version of the Musical Oliver! which was then showing on the London stage.
The new stage was transformed with foot and spot lights, scenery and various effects for the big night by a dedicated and enthusiastic team led by Dick Borley, Vincent Webb and John Uglow.
The first half featured performances from members of the ‘The Upstarts’ drama group, notably John Tamsett and Mike Brady who were very funny, and musical items from other artists including children from the Leslie Nunn School of Dancing. The second half however was devoted to the performance of Oliver! which was a resounding success and destined to be repeated again in future years.
Lionel Bart’s Oliver!
The Cast:
The Beadle - Alec New
Oliver - Andrew Jacobs
Artful Dodger - Mark Veale
Fagin - Bryan Veale
Nancy - Evelyn Veale
Children of the Workhouse, Workhouse staff, Fagin’s Gang - Choristers and adult members of the Choir of St. Mary The Virgin, Upchurch.
Accompanist - Doris Rider
Lighting - Vincent Webb
Stage Manager - Richard Borley
Props and Scenery - Pam Borley John Uglow
Producer and Musical Director Bryan Veale
Bryan Veale
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