Dothan’s SEACT brings classic story to stage with ‘Oliver’

It’s a classic tale. A young boy, born into poverty, spends his early years as an orphan — first in a workhouse and then on the streets of London. Despite those who want to corrupt him, the young boy manages to remain pure and good.

The story unfolds in “Oliver!” — the musical based on the Charles Dickens’ novel “Oliver Twist” — the latest production by the Southeast Alabama Community Theatre. A cast of adults and children will bring the tale to the stage at the Dothan Opera House Oct. 27 through Nov. 1.

“It’s almost one of those forgotten Broadway hits,” said Dave Gilligan, who portrays ruthless criminal Bill Sykes.

The musical version of Dickens’ tale features dark humor and drama along with classic Broadway songs such as “Where is Love.”

Ten-year-old Ian Seales steps into his first lead role with SEACT as Oliver. The Rehobeth Elementary student said he likes portraying a character who faces the challenges that Oliver must confront.

“He goes through a lot of dramatic changes,” Ian said.

Another young lead, Caleb Brooks, is not only in his first starring role with SEACT but also his first role on stage as the pickpocket Artful Dodger. Caleb has actually worked with sound and lighting on previous SEACT plays.

“I’ve just been working behind the scenes, and I wanted to try my hand on stage,” he said.

Amy Scott as Nancy and Wayne Patterson as gang leader Fagin round out the lead roles.

Patterson, who received a theater major 20 years ago, is also SEACT’s newest board member. With full-time jobs, school and families, Patterson said performers must be committed to participate in community theater.

“It is a reminder of how much it takes to put on a production,” Patterson said. “ ... It takes a certain amount of dedication.”

Margot Wright, who is co-director of “Oliver!” with Judy Brown, said the production appealed to SEACT because it involved children, and there are not many musical productions that feature roles for children. The last time SEACT performed “Oliver!” was in 1987 — both Wright and Brown appeared in the ‘87 version. Then 27 years old, Wright portrayed Old Sally.

“It was just time to bring back an old classic,” Wright said. “I think this is a show for everyone.”
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If you go ...
What: “Oliver!” by the Southeast Alabama Community Theatre
Where: Dothan Opera House
When: Oct. 27-Nov. 1
Times: Performances are 7:30 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; Matinees at 2 p.m., Saturday-Sunday
Tickets: $20-$22, available at the Dothan Civic Center box office