Burns Park Players' "Oliver" A Delight

Burns Park Players' 'Oliver' a delight

STAGE REVIEW

BY ROGER LELIEVRE

News Arts Writer

Notice to the Burns Park Players: Consider yourselves outstanding.

The neighborhood theater group is presenting “Oliver,” it’s annual musical/fundraiser, at Tappan Middle School. The adaptation of Dickens’ “Oliver Twist” - the story of a runaway orphan (Jordan McKay) who hooks up with a group of boys trained as pickpockets by older mentor Fagin (Christopher Taylor) - was magic, not an unusual affair for this talented group of amateurs. I’ve always been amazed at how Burns Park shows, with their huge casts of adults and children, manage to pull things together so seamlessly. And so well.

Taylor completely owned the role of Fagin, making his character sympathetic even as he exploited his band of petty thieves. Jeffrey Post was hiss-worthy as the abusive Bill Sykes, while Jay Pekala seemed born to play the avaricious Mr. Bumble. Zack Pearlman, with his ready smile, was letter-perfect as the Artful Dodger.

The Trouper Award goes to Frank Worden (Mr. Sowerberry), injured in rehearsal but still able, with the help of a cane, to carry off his role with aplomb. And what of Oliver? McKay was a real charmer who handled his singing duties with ease, melting hearts. As is typical with Burns Park shows, the set and costumes were as good or better than some professional companies, while Eric Lofstrom’s orchestra didn’t miss a beat.

"Oliver"continues through Saturday at Tappan Middle School. Details: 734-665-2518.