On Saturday I went to the afternoon performance of Oliver! at the Desert Stages Theatre. I have never seen a live production of this play, I only saw the film once when it came out in 1968. I was six years old and my parents took me to see it at one of the large movie theaters in downtown Chicago. I remember the gist of the storyline, but not the whole story. I thought by seeing this live production the story would flood back into my memory...NOT! Okay, I have to admit it was like seeing it for the first time all over. Usually, I read up on anything I go see. I like to know ahead of time about the plot and who all the characters are, but I didn't do it this time. I really thought I would remember all the characters from seeing the film in 1968. Every time someone new came on stage, I thought to myself...who is this??? I guess I have killed a few brain cells over the years. Anyway, I really enjoyed this production. The actors were brilliantly cast, and all were superb - especially the kids. I always keep my programs from all the plays I attend. I just know that someday I will say that I saw this super famous talented movie star when they were just a kid in a local community theatre play.
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| Zachary Denious as Oliver |
