Penobscot Theatre Company Presents OLIVER! for the Holidays

Penobscot Theatre Company proudly presents Oliver!, the beloved musical by Lionel Bart, based on the classic novel by Charles Dickens, opening in previewsDecember 1 and running through Christmas Eve at the historic Bangor Opera House. "For generations, Oliver! has delighted audiences worldwide with larger-than-life characters and songs that grab your heart and make your spirit soar," said Producing Artistic Director Bari Newport. "We invite our region's residents and visitors of all ages to consider themselves at home at Penobscot Theatre Company this holiday season!

Set in Victorian London, the story follows young orphan Oliver Twist in his quest for a loving home. Director and choreographer Allison Bibicoff of California is bringing the production to life with characteristic energy and imagination. Bibicoff has earned high praise in the regions and on Broadway (Xanadu). Zachary Spreng will make his debut as the title character. Veteran actor Dominick Varney will play the iconic role of Fagin, who leads a gang of child pickpockets including the Artful Dodger, played by AnDrew Barrett of Hampden. The large cast also includes Kate Adam, Aidan Babbitt, Brianne Beck, Frank Booker, Emma Campbell, Elena DeSiervo Burns, Neil E. Graham, Molly Hagerty, Anna Kemble, Daniel Kennedy, Grace Livingston Kramer (dance captain), Ben Layman, Annie Leonardi-Merchant, Noam Osher, Zivi Osher, Rebeckah Kay Perry and Alek Sayers (fight captain). Graham's English Bulldog Layla will play Bullseye.

Music director Phil Burns will orchestrate such timeless songs as "As Long as He Needs Me," "Food, Glorious Food," and "Where Is Love," leading seasoned musicians Tom Libby (percussion), Jim Winters (trombone), Carl Ferm (woodwinds) and Lori Wingo (trumpet/French horn).

The show will feature designs by Tricia Hobbs (scenic), Scout Hough (lighting), Kevin Koski (costumes), Ben Wetzel (props) and Brandie Larkin (sound).

Penobscot Theatre Company will partner with the Bangor Humane Society for the fifth consecutive year to help find homes for dogs in need before each performance. To date, this partnership has helped place 72 dogs.

Oliver! tickets are available online at www.penobscottheatre.org or through the box office, located at 131 Main Street, Bangor; (207) 942-3333. Regular ticket prices are $38 for adults and $15 for students. General adult admission to the preview performances December 1 and 2 will be $25 and $27 respectively.