Theater group has another hit
Yuma Community Theater does it again. "Oliver" was a blockbuster hit. From the opening number, "More," with the boys chorus singing their hearts out, to Fagin fading into the background while "Reviewing the Situation," the show is wonderful.
It proves again just how much talent there is in Yuma. Dominic Landon Gizzi steals the show as the Artful Dodger with his singing, dancing and acting. Eric Farber as Fagin is impressive. Sarah Reyes as Nancy, Robert Snyder as Oliver, Bruce Kelly as Bill Sikes, and, as always, Ralph Gray as Mr. Bumble, do commendable jobs. The director, Cathy Abarno, has filled all the parts with good singers and actors or actresses.
The set was well-thought out; the use of the portable triangles from "Oklahoma" is duly noted and provided nice, convenient changes of scenery. As always, in a YCT production, the stage crew was impressive in the fast (and quiet) scene changes. The lighting enhanced the production and the use of the reds and blues helped set the mood.
For this reviewer, the most enjoyable part of "Oliver" is the music. From the rousing "Oom Pah Pah" to the love song "As Long As He Needs Me" and quiet "Where is Love," all the songs are toe-tapping and/or have great lyrics.
It is noted "As Long As He Needs Me" needs a violin accompaniment and no horns (reeds are OK, but no horns). The orchestra behind the set worked well for this show and the use of microphones for some of the small-voiced leads was a pleasant addition.
Any critique must mention some of the songs being sung in the audience. Rows A-F could not see or really twisted their necks to see a few numbers performed in the aisles. If they could hear, it was still enjoyable.
If you decide to go, do not be afraid to laugh at the Bumbles and the Sowerberrys.
The cast and crew and production staff are to be congratulated and thanked for bringing "Oliver" to the Yuma stage and doing it in such a great fashion. Go YCT!
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JOHN GRUNDON
Yuma
