A new stage adaptation of Oliver Twist will open at the Raglan Town Hall on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November 2025, for one magic weekend. The production is adapted and directed by Ruth Hare, founder of Raglan Theatre Academy.
Read more: Raglan Theatre Academy brings Oliver Twist to lifeThe show brings Charles Dickens’ classic story to life with a cast of 75 youth performers. It follows the journey of young orphan Oliver as he navigates the streets of Victorian London. From the harshness of the workhouse to the shadowy underworld of Fagin and his gang of pickpockets, orphaned Oliver meets a diverse cast of characters, each capable of both kindness and cruelty.
Director Ruth Hare said: “Although much has changed since Dickens’ London, some things remain surprisingly similar. It felt important to capture the essence of the time, both its hardship and its hope, and remind the audience it is as much about courage and compassion today as it was then.”
The cast includes Anatipa Tepania as Oliver is his first lead role at just eleven. He is joined by current familiar faces such as Giorgia Hope as Nancy, Katie Parkes as the Artful Dodger, Elliot Wilson as Bill Sikes and Vida Bradbury in her graduate year at the academy, taking on the highly sought-after role of Fagin. They lead a vibrant cast of young performers from the school’s production drama classes programme, showcasing the depth of talent within the drama school.
Performances run Saturday 29th November 2pm and 6pm and Sunday 30th November 1pm and 5pm.
Raglan Theatre Academy is a youth performing arts school based in Raglan, and runs a diverse range of after school classes, productions and school holiday programmes. Class options range from 7-18 years of age.
Tickets are available to purchase online at www.raglantheatreacademy.co.nz
