OLIVER Audiences Want More

If you’re looking to fill your theatre calendar for the foreseeable future, you’ll be delighted to learn that OLIVER! has just extended its smash-hit West End revival into 2026. This vibrant, critically acclaimed version of Lionel Bart’s beloved musical, adapted from Charles Dickens’ classic Oliver Twist, had already been generating considerable buzz—and now, due to overwhelming demand, the production is offering even more opportunities for audiences to experience it. Whether you’ve grown up humming Consider Yourself or you’re new to the story of the wayward orphan boy, this revival promises a fresh take on a timeless favourite.

A TRIUMPHANT RETURN TO THE WEST END

OLIVER! has long been hailed as a cornerstone of British musical theatre. First premiering in 1960, the show made history by becoming one of the earliest stage hits adapted from a Dickens novel, paving the way for future literary-inspired musicals. Audiences were captivated by the way Lionel Bart’s lyrics and music breathed new life into classic characters such as Fagin, Nancy, and Bill Sikes.

Over six decades later, OLIVER! is still touching hearts with its universal themes of love, community, and the quest for belonging. This latest revival, which took shape at Chichester’s Festival Theatre last summer, quickly became the talk of the town. In fact, it scooped a five-star review from WhatsOnStage and garnered multiple WhatsOnStage Award nominations. Much of that success can be traced to Cameron Mackintosh, who devised the production, and to Matthew Bourne—famed for his revolutionary work on SWAN LAKE—who brings his signature creativity to both direction and choreography. He’s joined by co-director Jean-Pierre van der Spuy, ensuring that the show’s Dickensian world is reimagined with style, energy, and heart.

One sign of the production’s triumph is its ever-growing run at the West End venue. It’s now booking all the way through to Sunday 29 March 2026. Theatre enthusiasts can mark their diaries for Monday 27 January at 10am, when tickets for dates from 30 September 2025 to 29 March 2026 go on sale. If you needed any encouragement to start planning future theatre excursions, this extension might just be the nudge you were waiting for.

A STAR-STUDDED REVIVAL

A crucial ingredient in any great OLIVER! production is an accomplished cast that can balance the show’s emotional heft with moments of lightness and fun. This revival shines in that respect, led by Simon Lipkin as the cunning yet oddly endearing Fagin, and Shanay Holmes—well-known from shows like THE BODYGUARD—as the warm-hearted Nancy. Meanwhile, Aaron Sidwell (HENRY VI, WICKED) delivers a menacing turn as Bill Sikes, and Billy Jenkins (LES MISÉRABLES, BBC’s Dodger) takes on the role of the Artful Dodger with the cheekiness that character demands. For select performances, Billy Byers will step into the Dodger’s shoes as an alternate, ensuring the character’s trademark mischief is always on point.

Completing the ensemble of adult leads are Oscar Conlon-Morrey as Mr Bumble, Katy Secombe (THE MUSIC MAN, LES MISÉRABLES) as Widow Corney, and Stephen Matthews (STRICTLY BALLROOM, CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG) as Mr Sowerberry/Dr Grimwig. Jamie Birkett (PETER PAN GOES WRONG, MAMMA MIA! THE PARTY) plays Mrs Sowerberry/Mrs Bedwin, with Philip Franks (THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW, WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION) as Mr Brownlow. The young thieves-in-training—Fagin’s gang—are performed by a talented rotating cast of children carefully selected via a nationwide search. Theatre watchers are often amazed at how these young performers hold their own in such an iconic show; this OLIVER! is no exception.

Of course, the beating heart of the musical is Oliver Twist himself. In this revival, four gifted boys share the demanding role: Cian Eagle-Service (THE WITCHES, LES MISÉRABLES), Raphael Korniets (THE SNOWMAN), and Jack Philpott (THE WITCHES, MATILDA) alternate for much of the season. From the end of January, Odo Rowntree-Bailly(LOVE NEVER DIES) joins the rotation, guaranteeing that every performance of OLIVER! features a fresh and enthralling portrayal of this vulnerable, yet resilient, protagonist.

A DICKENSIAN DELIGHT FOR ALL AGES

Dickens’ Oliver Twist is not merely a piece of 19th-century literature; it’s a timeless exploration of society, morality, and the boundary between poverty and crime. Yet OLIVER! distils the story into a musical that remains accessible, entertaining, and packed with some of theatre’s most recognisable tunes. From the rousing Food Glorious Food—where hungry orphans dream of better meals—to the high-spirited You’ve Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two, audiences are reminded why Lionel Bart’s score continues to endure, decade after decade.

Shanay Holmes’s performance of As Long As He Needs Me is another major highlight, with the song’s stirring melody and poignant lyrics highlighting Nancy’s predicament—and showcasing the depth of her love for Oliver. Meanwhile, the entire ensemble shines in numbers like Consider Yourself, encouraging the audience to clap along and immerse themselves in the bustling, spirited world of Victorian London. It’s no wonder the show has been on so many “must-see” lists: it engages both the eyes and the heart.

Adding to the sense of scale and spectacle is the production’s creative design team. Lez Brotherston’s set and costumes evoke Victorian London with an almost cinematic flair. Meanwhile, lighting designers Paule Constable and Ben Jacobsenhance the drama through carefully plotted illumination, and Adam Fisher’s sound design balances the boisterous group numbers with the quieter, tender moments. George Reeve’s projection work is an extra layer of storytelling magic, bringing to life everything from fog-filled alleyways to the lively energy of a street market.

MUSICAL MAGIC AND CREATIVE MASTERY

Beyond the staging, the soul of any musical lies in its orchestrations and musical direction. OLIVER! benefits from the expertise of Graham Hurman, who serves as musical supervisor and conductor, ensuring that every note resonates throughout the theatre. The original orchestrations by William David Brohn are the backbone of the show’s distinctive sound, while Stephen Metcalfe’s orchestral adaptation blends tradition with a contemporary sheen. The result is a lush, full-bodied score that can both dazzle and tug at the heartstrings.

On the choreography front, Matthew Bourne’s distinctive touch—coupled with the support of co-director Jean-Pierre van der Spuy—stands out in each big production number. Fans of Bourne’s previous work will recognise his knack for storytelling through dance, here adapted to a large and occasionally youthful cast. Assisting in this ambitious task are choreographic associates Etta Murfitt and Sam Archer, who work with every performer, from seasoned professionals to young newcomers, to ensure that Dickens’ Victorian streets bustle with coordinated movement and life.

Indeed, the producers and creative team are quick to credit the contributions of their casting directors, Felicity Frenchand Paul Wooller, and children’s casting director Verity Naughton, who have scoured the nation to find the perfect mix of talent. This conscientious approach to casting has made every aspect of the show feel as authentic and vibrant as Dickens’ original text.

BUILDING ON A LEGACY

While OLIVER! is deeply rooted in tradition, this revival also brings a fresh perspective to a story many of us think we know. The production does not shy away from the harsher realities of Dickens’ world—the cruelty of the workhouse, the lawlessness of Fagin’s den—yet it balances these grittier elements with moments of laughter, camaraderie, and genuine hope. It’s a tricky balance to strike, but the creative team has managed it with aplomb, making the show accessible to children while still compelling for adults.

Many theatre fans may wonder: “How does this OLIVER! stack up against past revivals?” The answer seems unanimous among critics and audiences: it’s an unmissable addition to the show’s storied legacy. In a glowing five-star review, WhatsOnStage praised the revival for its “fresh energy” and for honouring Lionel Bart’s original vision while still adding its own inventive twists. The fact that it has racked up more performances and extended yet again to 2026 is testament to its wide-reaching appeal.

To further celebrate this success, a brand-new cast album is also available, featuring the show’s current line-up. It’s a great way for fans to relive the live experience at home or on the go—and for newcomers to get a taste of the show’s musical highlights before stepping foot into the theatre.

LOOKING AHEAD

With tickets flying off the shelves, it’s fair to predict that OLIVER! will continue to enchant West End audiences for years to come. Considering its strong cast, striking design, and the undeniable genius of Lionel Bart’s music and lyrics, it’s no surprise that people are clamouring for more. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone returning for a second, third, or fourth viewing, there’s something about this musical that keeps calling you back: a quality that can be attributed as much to Dickens’ timeless story as to the passion of the performers and creative team.

If you’re tempted to see OLIVER! (or see it again), remember that tickets for the newly added dates go on sale on 27 January at 10am. Given how fast previous bookings have gone, you might want to set an alarm. After all, theatre is about being present—sharing the space with performers as they bring characters to life before your eyes—and OLIVER! delivers that magical sensation in spades.

There’s a reason Dickens’ orphaned boy and his adventures have enthralled generations of readers and theatregoers: Oliver’s story resonates across ages and social divides. The musical adaptation reminds us that compassion, camaraderie, and resilience can flourish in even the bleakest of circumstances. In an era when many are seeking uplifting and affirming entertainment, OLIVER! does more than entertain—it reaffirms the power of hope.

So, if you fancy immersing yourself in Victorian London, singing along to Food Glorious Food, and marvelling at the wit and warmth of Fagin’s gang, OLIVER! is ready to welcome you with open arms. Secure your seats, bring friends or family (or both), and prepare to be whisked away by a show that blends Dickensian grit with the joy of musical theatre. After all, in the world of OLIVER!, everyone is invited to “consider yourself at home”—and once you’re there, you just might never want to leave.