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Where is love? In revival of "Oliver!'

By Candace Chaney Contributing Theater Critic

VERSAILLES — Long before it had even a name, what would become the Woodford County Theatrical Arts Association began modestly with a staging of Oliver! at the amphitheater at Midway College.

Now, WCTAA celebrates its 20-year milestone with a production of the same play.

With book, lyrics and music by Lionel Bart, Oliver! is a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist. The tale follows the trials of a young orphan boy in 19th-century London.

Though only a few people might remember that first show in Midway, this production is a fitting testament to its legacy. Soaring musical numbers deftly delivered by a cast of young and old, beautifully functional technical design, and skilled direction are hallmarks of this enjoyable show.

Scott DiMeo, a fifth-grader at Lexington's School for the Creative and Performing Arts, is charming, spirited and heart-wrenching in the title role, particularly in Where Is Love? I did not expect the younger cast members to attempt a British accent, but DiMeo and others go for it. His is surprisingly sharp.

The supporting cast of ragtag orphans and Mr. Fagin's band of pickpocketing street kids are adorable. They soon warmed to the crowd and let their voices ring through the theater. Take heart, kids, and have confidence; you sound great.

Robert Hoagland as Bumble and Cynthia Ackley as the Widow Corney launch into delightful loathsomeness with the hilarious numbers Oliver! and I Shall Scream!

Another highlight is Dave Dampier's terrifying rogue, Bill Sikes, who delivers a chilling My Name.

Bonnie M. Stuck delivers a charismatic performance as Nancy, a grown-up version of Fagin's street kids who is in love with Sikes. Stuck uses her gorgeous, potent voice to evoke pure sauciness, but she is tragically vulnerable, particularly in the song As Long as He Needs Me.

Finally, Oliver! would not be complete without an Artful Dodger. Melissa Denise Ratliff does a fine bit of gender bending to deliver a spectacular crook.

Director Beth Kirchner doubles as set designer to remarkable effect with three tall, rotating structures against a backdrop of the London skyline. Every technical and dramatic component of the show lends detail and color to Oliver's plight.