REHEARSALS are well under way for Ilkley Grammar School’s forthcoming production of Oliver.

The story begins as Oliver leaves the hardship of the workhouse and is sold into an apprenticeship by Mr Bumble.

Bumble, played by Harri Pitches, adds terrific comedic effect with his impressive sense of his own dignity and continually mangling the King's English!

Escaping from life with the undertakers, the Sowerberrys, Oliver’s adventure really starts as he travels to London where he meets the Artful Dodger a member of a gang of juvenile pickpockets, led by the elderly criminal Fagin (Lucy Carter).

With fantastic character parts, the innocent founding Oliver (Jamie Rimmington), the mischievous Artful Dodger (Matthew Hodson), and the epitome of the Victorian soap, the good woman, Nancy (Leona McLoughlin) falling for the archetypal Victorian bad boy, Bill Sykes (Ethan Thompson).

The Victorian drama is played out to some of the best known songs from a musical including the crown pleasing ‘Food, Glorious, Food’ to the jovial ‘Consider Yourself’ and the emotional solo ‘Where is love’, which guarantees not a dry eye in the house.

Students from all years are included in the production and the backstage crew. Oliver takes place on December 2, 3 and 4 at 7pm at Ilkley Grammar School, tickets priced £8/4 (concession) are available from IGS Reception.