Oliver! at Citadel Theatre Company

Around The Town Chicago - Recommended

"...The clever staff of Citadel has constructed an amazing set (David Geinosky) that allows multi levels and can be changed from Fagin's abode, to the streets of London, to the orphanage where it all begins with great speed and allows the flow of director Pat Murphy to never lose the attention of the audience. He uses not only the stage, but the aisles so that while our eyes are drawn to the action, offstage actors can strike sets and add new ones. The flow of the story is essential as this is billed a "family show" thus little kids will be in the audience. The overall time on this one is 2 1/2 hours with a 15 minute intermission. Little ones could have (or become) a problem."

Chicago Theatre Review - Recommended

"...This musical is an ambitious undertaking for Citadel. It offers many challenges for this company by demanding a large cast with several juvenile performers, at least two of the youngsters in leading roles. The modest Citadel stage appears to be better suited to a smaller cast, a less-ambitious set and a simpler method of accompaniment. However, with the success of this particular production, audiences will now look forward to more large scale shows designed to fit this company. For now, this production, which is aimed at family audiences, offers theatergoers a holiday treat reminding us that “It’s a Fine, Fine Life.”"