Harbour Theatre’s final production for 2009, and our last at the Princess May Building, is the well-known tale of the orphan Oliver (played by Callum Fletcher of Hamilton Hill), and his struggle to survive against the odds. Set in Dickensian London, we chart Oliver’s progress through the wretched hive of scum and villainy that abounds at every turn. Jeremy Brock’s adaptation combines the richness of the story – sinister antics from the mellifluous sounding Fagin (Andy Markland of East Fremantle); comic pomposity from the Workhouse Beadle, Mr Bumble (David Champion of Kardinya); and the horror of Nancy’s (Kim Lazarus of Dianella) brutal murder at the hands of Bill Sikes (Phil Barnett of South Perth) – with dramatic and up-to-date pace.

Callum Fletcher who is playing Oliver says that “playing such a well-known character is challenging and completely opposite to my recent role as the Prince in the King and I. The times in which Oliver lived are so different to life now and I have thoroughly enjoyed researching the part and finding out more about what life was like in Dickensian London”

Andy Markland who is playing Fagin also says that “Having only recently arrived in Australia I am thrilled to be playing such a highly coveted role for Harbour Theatre. The character of Fagin is based on the real life character of Ikey Solomon who was transported to Australia for his crimes. As a new arrival myself I know how he must have felt!”

Award-winning directors Nicola Bond and Peter Kirkwood have collaborated on many occasions directing to much critical acclaim the productions of Wuthering Heights, Lucky Sods, Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Frankenstein to name a few.

Directors Bond and Kirkwood add: “Directing this large cast of both young people and adults has been a sheer pleasure. From the very first audition we knew we were going to have a very special, highly talented cast of people. Not only have they had to do in-depth research for the characters they are portraying, some have also had to learn cockney accents. They have succeeded in both aspects admirably.”

“The entire production team have worked very hard to bring early Victorian London to life, both in its opulent generosity and dangerous griminess. We urge you to attend this wonderful production which will sadly be Harbour Theatre’s last production in the historic Princess May Building, a building which is so suited to period drama.”

SEASON DATES:
November 27th, 28th, 30th, Devember 2nd, 4th, 5th, 9th, 11th & 12th at 8.00pm
MATINEE: November 29th & December 6th at 2.00pm

VENUE:
The Princess May Building
Cnr Cantonment & Parry Streets, Fremantle
ENTRANCE: Please note that the Box Office and Theatre entrance is off Parry Street.

PARKING:
NOTE: Many streets around the theatre are metered parking, even in the evening. To avoid a parking fine please refer to and obey any street signage. Also, please allow sufficient time to secure parking before the show to avoid disappointment as you will not be allowed into the theatre once the curtain is up.

BOOKINGS:
Harbour Theatre Members Only: 08 9433 6260
All others book @ BOCS: 08 9484 1133

HELP US CELEBRATE...
Come to help celebrate 46 years of Harbour Theatre and our final production in the Princess May Building by having a meal at Clancy’s Fish Pub before the show (it’s right next door to the theatre). Ask for your Harbour Theatre Meal Deal to receive a discount – good times, great food and a fantastic show all add up to a top night out in Fremantle!

PS: Rest assured that we are investigating all possibilities to continue performing in the Fremantle region throughout 2010. Check out our web site for the latest news...