Shorecrest drama presents ‘Oliver!’

The Shorecrest High School Drama Department presents the Broadway musical “Oliver!” as their 2003 spring production. Opening night is 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 15, with additional performances at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 16, 2 and7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 17 and 1 and 5 p.m. Sunday, May 18 in the Shorecrest Theatre, 15343 25th Ave. NE, Shoreline.

“Oliver!” is an energetic musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ famous classic novel “Oliver Twist.” Set in 19th century London, young Oliver is abused in an orphanage, “adopted” by Fagin’s street gang of pickpockets headed by the Artful Dodger — and eventually befriended by Mr. Brownlow, a gentleman of wealth and breeding. “Oliver!” was first presented in London and later ran on Broadway, where in 1962 it received three Tony Awards for Composer and Lyricist, Conductor and Musical Director, and Scenic Designer. It is acclaimed for its musical numbers, including “Food, Glorious Food,” “Where is Love?”, “Consider Yourself,” “Pick a Pocket or Two.”

Returning director and set designer from the fall production of “The Secret Garden” is Brad Reed. Brian Fairbanks will be vocal director, while Mark Adamo, Shorecrest orchestra director, will conduct the pit orchestra. Linda Johnson is producer for the show and teacher of the Play Production Class, whose 29 members will be the actors, with Lauren Appelwick as production stage manager.

Reserved seat tickets for the six public performances are available for $7 and $8 at Shorecrest High School and ticket outlets at Meredith’s at Lake Forest Park Towne Centre and Ostroms at 185th and Aurora, who volunteer their services. Purchase tickets early, as traditionally shows sell out in advance.