In this powerful new adaptation of Dickens' classic novel, Neil Bartlett brings back to the theatre one of the angriest, funniest and most deeply felt stories about childhood ever written. Taking their inspiration from the vivid world of Victorian music-hall, a company of thirteen actors conjure up a host of unforgettable characters - Fagin, Nancy, Bill Sikes, the Artful Dodger and, of course, little Oliver himself. Dickens' original words bring the dark underbelly of nineteenth-century London back to thrilling life - a city teeming with images of danger and fear, of innocence and of hope - all seen through the eyes of an astonished child. 'Oliver Twist' opens at the Lyric Theatre Hammersmith in February 2004, and is suitable for ages 10 to adult.