Review: Oliver! at Gielgud Theatre

⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Four Stars)

Cameron Mackintosh's latest revival of Oliver! at the Gielgud Theatre is a vibrant production that has all the potential to enjoy a long and successful run in the West End. This production of the musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel feels like a close cousin to its next-door neighbour, Les Misérables, another of Mackintosh’s iconic productions. 

The music, composed by Lionel Bart, is the undeniable star of the show. Featuring iconic, crowd-pleasing songs like “Consider Yourself” and “As Long As He Needs Me,” the score is a nostalgic joy for anyone who grew up watching the 1968 film adaptation or listening to the cast recording. These songs remain as vibrant and infectious as ever, and they fill the Gielgud Theatre with energy. The big ensemble numbers are particularly impressive, with Matthew Bourne’s choreography elevating them to new heights. The large cast, including an incredibly talented group of young performers, brings such vitality to the production that it’s impossible not to be swept up in the infectious spirit of these musical moments.

Lez Brotherston’s set design includes clever use of a revolving stage, which allows for smooth transitions between locations and keeps the pace of the show flowing effortlessly. The visual contrast between the colourful, treasure-filled den of Fagin’s gang and the bleak, grey environments of the workhouse and funeral parlour is striking, perfectly capturing the harshness of Oliver's early life. The costumes, also designed by Brotherston, are wonderfully thought out, especially Bill Sykes’ attire which feels very much like the grown-up version of Fagin’s gang’s colourful outfits, suggesting the path these young pickpockets might one day follow. This adds an extra layer to the story as Bill becomes the cautionary tale of the children’s future if they don’t escape the cycle of crime they’re trapped in.

Paule Constable’s lighting design is another highlight of the production, brilliantly setting the mood and enhancing the atmosphere, particularly during the darker opening scenes. The use of lighting to depict the bleakness of Oliver’s early years, before his eventual introduction to Fagin’s world, is a testament to the thoughtful staging of this revival.

Simon Lipkin’s portrayal of Fagin stands out as one of the most memorable performances in this production. Lipkin brings a blend of humour and depth to the character, incorporating his background as a magician into Fagin’s sleight-of-hand tricks. His rendition of "Reviewing the Situation" is fantastic and he takes opportunities to break the fourth wall at several points in the show which garner lots of laughs from the audience. Shanay Holmes, as Nancy, is equally impressive, delivering powerhouse vocals that bring emotional depth to the character, especially in her moving performance of “As Long As He Needs Me.” 

Overall, this revival of Oliver! at the Gielgud Theatre is a brilliant celebration of the timeless music and heart of the story. While the balance between the light-hearted, jaunty numbers and the darker elements of the plot may occasionally feel uneven, the production’s energy, design, and performances make it a must-see.

Oliver! is currently booking until 29th March 2026.

Photos by Johan Persson