This modern adaptation of the play is directed by veteran Steve Paulding. He was inspired to update the classic after he read a story in a Chicago newspaper about a gang of youngsters who were living out a real-life version of the Dickens novel complete with thieving and living on the streets.

The play tells the story of orphaned Oliver Twist ( Michael Sims) who escapes the horrid life of a workhouse under the harsh rule of Mr. Bumble ( Damon Hein) only to fall into a gang of pickpockets in London led by the utterly wicked Fagin ( Dave Truhler).

After being wrongfully accused of a theft committed by gang member Artful Dodger ( Chris Maclean), Oliver is proven innocent then taken in by the wealthy gentleman Mr. Brownlow ( Mike Frazier). What follows is a battle for possession of the beloved Oliver and the secret of his past.

This edition of "Oliver!" is one of Castle Rock Players' largest undertakings to date. After producing such successes in the past as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Wizard of Oz, The King & I and The Sound of Music, the local theater company's Artistic Director David Truhler decided to go all out yet again with a fabulous two story set, hundreds of visual aids & details, live music and dazzling costumes and lighting. For this production Castle Rock Players returns to Castle View High School, an inviting and comfortable venue perfect for a professional production such as "Oliver!".