Eastside Seattle Students present "Oliver Twist"

May 9, 2012 - PRLog -- Main Characters— in this production will be played by the following Bear Creek students:
OLIVER - Katie Matthews, junior, Clyde Hill
ARTFUL DODGER - Drew Yutrzenka, freshman, Kirkland
FAGIN - Jake Casale, junior, Redmond
BILL SIKES - Connor Thomas, junior, Woodinville
NANCY - Hanna Anderson, senior, Issaquah
MR. BUMBLE - Sam Stansell, junior, Redmond
MRS. CORNEY - Ellie Probus, senior, Sammamish

Adapted and directed by—Dr. Ron Lynch, drama director at The Bear Creek School

This Dickens’ classic tells the story of Oliver, an orphan, who has become the ward of the workhouse system. Morality in the 19th century slums of London was virtually non-existent. Crime was prevalent and so it is not surprising to find Oliver eventually in the presence of a band of young hooligans nurtured by the infamous Fagin, a man of treacherous enterprise. Together, with Bill Sikes and his girlfriend Nancy, they set out to corrupt young Oliver. The mysterious Mr. Monks weaves himself in and out of the story as he plots to eliminate Oliver. The only salvation for Oliver seems to be his new found friends the “Artful Dodger,” Nancy, and a benevolent Mr. Brownlow.

As we watch Oliver’s story unfold, we are reminded that tyranny comes in all forms and from unexpected sources.  Fortunately for Oliver, he does not become consumed by the evil which surrounds him, but rather is drawn toward a light at the end of his dreary tunnel. He emerges with hope, rescuing the goodness within himself and in doing so, gives all of us the courage to face our own demons.

Bear Creek’s production features twelve street urchins with speaking parts, many of whom have developed a talent for picking pockets as they rehearsed for their roles. A 30-foot collapsible set was built on wheels and hinges so that the Cornerstone Theater stage could be shared with other school groups during the months of rehearsal.

All performances are open to the public. Tickets ($5 individual or $10 for the whole family) may be purchased at the door. The Bear Creek School Cornerstone Theater, 8905 208th Ave NE, Redmond WA, 98053, 452-898-1720, www.tbcs.org

Performance Schedule
Friday, May 18, 2012       Matinee Performance 4:00 p.m.
Friday, May 18, 2012      Evening Performance 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 19, 2012   Matinee Performance 2:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 19, 2012   Evening Performance 7:30 p.m.