BAFTA and Emmy Award-winning actor, comedian and writer Matt Lucas will step into the role of Fagin in Cameron Mackintosh and Matthew Bourne's acclaimed production of Oliver! at London's Gielgud Theatre for a strictly limited six-week season from 22 September to 1 November 2026. Lucas joins the hit revival as Simon Lipkin temporarily leaves the production to take paternity leave following the birth of his first child. The performer is no stranger to the stage, having recently received acclaim for playing Thénardier in Les Misérables: The Arena Concert Spectacular, alongside an extensive career spanning television, film, theatre and bestselling children's books. His screen credits include Little Britain, Doctor Who, Paddington, Wonka and Gladiator II. Matt Lucas commented: “I’ve always wanted to appear in Oliver! It was the first West End musical I ever saw, aged 6, and I adored it. Apparently, despite my considerable range, I am considered slightly too old now to play the title role, so instead I shall be appearing as Fagin. It’s always a treat to reunite with Cameron, and, of course, to get the opportunity to work with Matthew Bourne. I love this incredible new production and am thrilled and honoured to now be a part of it.”​

Did you leave the Gielgud Theatre and utter the words, "Please, sir. Can I have some more?" If you're a fan of Lionel Bart's classic musical and want more shows similar to Oliver!, consider yourself in luck, because London is packed full of them. Oliver! follows a young orphan boy who's left to fend for himself on the dangerous streets of Victorian London. Hungry, desperate and alone, he falls into a gang of pickpockets led by the formidable Fagin. But will he have to live a life of crime to survive? Though the stage adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic novel is unique in both story and style, its themes and setting mean you have loads of West End musicals to choose from if you liked Oliver!. What musical is most like Oliver!? When it comes to like-for-like comparisons, the musical most like Oliver! is Matilda The Musical. Both Oliver! and Matilda The Musical feature a young, brilliant, neglected child trying to find a way out of harsh living circumstances. Both shows are adapted from classic children's books and feature unforgettable songs. Matilda The Musical is an enchanting story of a young girl who loves to read. She is sweet, clever and the complete opposite of the rest of her family. One day, while being punished for reading, she discovers she has magical powers and uses them to teach her parents and her evil headteacher a lesson. What should I watch if I loved Oliver!? Other than Matilda The Musical, shows similar to Oliver! include Les Misérables, The Lion King, and Billy Elliot. If you liked Oliver! for its gritty depiction of Victorian London, Les Misérables could be the one for you. Set in 19th-century France, it follows the ex-convict Jean Valjean as he transforms from a homeless man into a wealthy business owner, all while being relentlessly pursued by Inspector Javert. The musical also explores the harsh realities faced by children living in poverty, particularly when their parents can't - or won't - provide for them. Okay, hear us out. Though it takes place on the African savanna, The Lion King shares several themes with Oliver!. Left to fend for himself, the young lion Simba joins a group of unlikely companions before eventually taking his rightful place as king. If you loved Oliver! because of its friendships and heartwarming coming-of-age story, The Lion King is well worth seeing. If you liked Oliver! because of Oliver himself—a scrappy boy living in an impoverished Britain, doing everything he can to escape his circumstances—you'll love Billy Elliot. Making its grand comeback, Billy Elliot returns to the West End in February 2027. The heartwarming musical follows Billy, a young boy from a mining town who dreams of becoming a ballet dancer. Despite social expectations and bullying, he fights for his dreams in the hope of proving everyone wrong.

Simon Lipkin is a versatile English actor and musical theatre star, celebrated for his energetic performances across the West End and UK stage. Known for his charisma, comic timing, and strong vocal skills, Lipkin has earned recognition from audiences and critics alike, most recently with a prestigious Olivier Award nomination. Who is Simon Lipkin? With a career spanning stage, television, and film, Lipkin is known for his wide-ranging talents in musical theatre, comedy, and performance. Born on 9 January 1986 in Gants Hill, East London, Simon Lipkin trained from a young age, attending Ilford Jewish Primary School, Bancroft's School, the Sylvia Young Theatre School, and graduating from the Arts Educational School (ArtsEd) in 2005 with a degree in musical theatre. He even appeared on Amber Davies’ Call to Stage podcast, crediting Sylvia Young’s confidence in him as having a huge impact on his career and expressing gratitude for the belief she saw in his talent.

Since its debut in 1960, Oliver! has remained one of the most beloved British musicals of all time. Based on Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, Lionel Bart’s score is packed with unforgettable melodies, rich storytelling, and toe-tapping showstoppers. Whether it's hopeful ballads or raucous ensemble numbers, each song adds depth and colour to this classic tale of poverty, found family, and resilience. Discover how each song in Oliver! contributes to the magic, mischief, and emotion of this beloved West End favourite, now playing at the Gielgud Theatre and performed by a phenomenal cast. 1. “Food, Glorious Food” The opening number is as iconic as it gets. Sung by the workhouse boys, this song captures the bleak hunger and vivid imagination of children dreaming about hearty meals. With its soaring harmonies and instantly recognisable melody, it sets the tone for the harsh world Oliver lives in. 2. “Oliver!” This chilling choral number follows Oliver’s simple request for more food and the swift, over-the-top punishment that follows. The adult characters - particularly Mr. Bumble and the Widow Corney - lead this exaggerated response, painting a grim picture of Victorian discipline. 3. “I Shall Scream” A comic duet between Mr. Bumble and Widow Corney, this number showcases Bart’s knack for witty, flirtatious exchanges. It offers some light relief while hinting at the manipulative dynamic between the two characters. 4. “Boy for Sale” Bleak and haunting, this solo by Mr. Bumble sees him literally try to sell Oliver to the highest bidder. Its slow, minor-key melody heightens the cruelty of the moment, proving that even the most musically simple songs can carry heavy emotional weight. 5. “That’s Your Funeral” Undertaker Mr. Sowerberry and his wife sing this morbidly funny number as they prepare to take Oliver into their care. It blends dark humour with a catchy tune, typical of the show’s Dickensian mix of charm and cruelty. 6. “Where Is Love?” A tender ballad sung by Oliver, this song captures the heartache of a child longing for affection and belonging. Its simple, honest lyrics and melody have made it one of the most enduring songs from the show, often covered outside the musical theatre world.

Lionel Bart's Oliver! has had audiences asking for more after the award-winning musical returned to the West End, directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne. Set against the backdrop of Victorian England, the musical follows orphan Oliver Twist as he embarks on a whirlwind adventure to London.

More? Yes please. Since opening in the Gielgud Theatre in December 2024, Lionel Bart’s iconic musical has taken London by storm. Adapted from Charles Dicken’s classic novel, get to know the characters of Oliver! like never before. Who are the main Oliver characters? From kind-hearted souls and villainous thieves to menacing antagonists, let's get to know the characters of Oliver! Oliver An orphan born in a workhouse, Oliver endures a life of hardship and cruelty. Despite the harsh environment and rough treatment, he remains a sincere and innocent child, whose natural charm captures the interest of several wealthy benefactors. Fagin A cunning and manipulative career criminal, Fagin recruits homeless children and teaches them to steal for him, particularly by picking pockets. He also deals in stolen goods obtained by others. Rather than committing crimes personally, he relies on others to carry them out, allowing them to face the consequences while he remains behind the scenes. Nancy A young prostitute and former child pickpocket under Fagin’s influence, Nancy is also romantically involved with Bill Sikes. Her deep attachment to Sikes clashes with her moral conscience, especially when he mistreats Oliver. Despite her involvement in crime, Nancy stands out as one of the most noble characters in the story. Bill Sikes A ruthless career criminal raised in Fagin’s gang, Sikes is both Nancy’s pimp and lover. He shows a strange mix of brutality and reluctant affection toward her and his dog, Bull’s-eye.  The Artful Dodger Jack Dawkins, known as the Dodger, is the smartest of Fagin’s pickpockets. Although he is about the same age as Oliver, the Dodger speaks and dresses like an adult. He is the one who introduces Oliver to Fagin. Mr Brownlow A kind and compassionate wealthy man, he has a lot of love for Oliver and becomes the charming young child’s first mentor, guiding and supporting him.  

Fresh from a sell-out season at Chichester Festival Theatre, Lionel Bart’s iconic musical has returned to the West End. The critically acclaimed revival is packed with a host of stars, so there's no need to ask for more! But who's picking a pocket or two at the Gielgud Theatre? Who plays Oliver Twist in Oliver? The iconic role of Oliver is currently being shared between four young stars – James Miller, Jacob Sanders-Jones, Isaac Hackett and Thomas Newman. Who plays Fagin in Oliver? Simon Lipkin takes on the role of Fagin, receiving an Olivier Award nomination for his portayal. Lipkin has previously starred as Buddy the Elf in Elf The Musical and Nathan Detroit in Guys and Dolls. Who plays Nancy in Oliver? Living a Fine Life as Nancy is Ava Brennan. Brennan's previous credits include Vee in Netflix's Top Boy, Angelica in Hamilton, Les Miserables and The Lion King (West End/UK Tour).  Who plays Bill Sikes in Oliver? Aaron Sidwell plays the terrifying Bill Sikes. Sidwell has played Fiyero in Wicked, and Ham in Children of Eden. Who plays the Artful Dodger in Oliver? Aaron Macgregor makes his adult West End debut as the Artful Dodger, as a child he played Gavroche in the UK tour of Les Misérables!

Today marks a glorious 65 years since Oliver!, Lionel Bart’s beloved musical masterpiece, made itself at home in London’s West End. Premiering at Wimbledon Theatre before transferring to the New Theatre (now the Noël Coward Theatre) on 30 June 1960, it quickly gained a legion of fans. And with an Oscar-winning film adaptation following soon after, Oliver! gave its fans even more to get tucked into. Cementing itself as a theatrical, and cinematic, sensation. From page to stage Inspired by Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, the musical brought to life the grime and heart of Victorian London with irresistible charm. Lionel Bart wrote the book, music, and lyrics - well, kind of… Bart did not know how to read or write music, so composer Eric Rogers transcribed the melodies as Lionel hummed them!  Bart’s adaptation was equal parts gritty and heartwarming, pairing tales of poverty and pickpockets with toe-tapping tunes, that even non-musical theatre fans could sing word for word, including; “Consider Yourself,” “Food, Glorious Food,” and “As Long As He Needs Me.” The production was groundbreaking at the time - Oliver! was one of the first British musicals to rival Broadway imports and proved that homegrown talent could headline the West End. It ran for a staggering 2,618 performances at the New Theatre, setting a then-record for a British musical.  Stars (and almost-stars) in the making We don’t have any hot sausage and mustard, but we do have a tasty bit of trivia for you: Oscar winner Michael Caine auditioned for the role of Bill Sikes in the original London production - but didn’t get the part. We wonder what happened to him… The role eventually went to Ron Moody. Moody’s performance became so synonymous with the character that he reprised it in the 1968 Oscar-winning film adaptation. Speaking of the film: it scooped up six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It remains the only British Musical to pick up the award for Best Picture.  Other notable Fagins include; comedy legend Rowan Atkinson, Olivier nominee Simon Lipkin, two-time Tony nominee Clive Revill, and Oscar winner Ben Kingsly. 

The summer holidays are fast approaching, and if you’re already feeling the pressure to plan activities that don’t require a second mortgage (looking at you, Centre Parcs), we’ve got just the thing. Right now, you can grab half-price theatre tickets for some of the hottest West End shows, just in time to make your summer plans shine. A day at the theatre isn’t just an afternoon activity - it’s a full day out. Grab lunch, explore the area, then settle in for a show that’ll have the kids wide-eyed. Whether it’s blisteringly hot outside (thank you, theatre aircon) or, more likely, raining cats and dogs, the theatre is the perfect all-weather escape - and a surprisingly affordable one.  Here are seven incredible family-friendly shows offering discounts this summer. But hurry, these offers will end on the 7th July 2025.  Olivier! - Save up to 20% on July and August dates 65 years since its West End premiere, Oliver! cements itself as one of the most beloved British musicals of all time - and this summer, it’s back to steal hearts (and maybe a handkerchief or two). Based on Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, this show combines gritty Victorian drama with rousing song-and-dance numbers the whole family will hum all the way home. From the goosebump-inducing “Food, Glorious Food” to the mischievous charm of “Consider Yourself,” Oliver! delivers on both spectacle and soul. It’s perfect for kids aged 6+ and offers something for everyone: a gripping story, iconic characters, and a whole lot of heart. The musical has scooped up numerous awards over the decades and was famously adapted into a six-time Oscar-winning film. It's a truly timeless classic - and a perfect summer holiday treat. Back to the Future: The Musical - Save up to 48% on July dates Great Scott! This electrifying stage adaptation of the 1985 cult classic is a guaranteed hit with every generation. With a blend of retro nostalgia, dazzling special effects and infectious new songs, it’s one of the most exciting shows in town. Multiverse obsessed teens love the time-travel plot, adults can’t resist the 80s throwbacks, and everyone goes wild when the DeLorean flies. Starring teenager Marty McFly and the eccentric Doc Brown, the story sees them hurtling back to 1955 to make sure Marty’s parents fall in love—before he disappears from existence. It won Best New Musical at the 2022 Olivier Awards, and continues to wow West End crowds at the Adelphi Theatre. Clueless - Save up to 48% on July and August dates Like, totally iconic. This fabulously fun musical takes the much-loved 90s romcom and turns it into a stylish, pop-fuelled spectacle full of bold choreography and all the "as if!" attitude you could want. It’s the perfect show for teens and tweens, and for any adult who grew up with a flip phone and a fluffy pen. Follow fashion queen Cher Horowitz as she plays matchmaker at her Beverly Hills high school - only to discover that love can’t be accessorised. It's sharp, funny, and heartwarming in all the right ways. Pair it with a pink lemonade and you’ve got a day out worthy of your kids TikTok. Stranger Things: The First Shadow - Save up on 32% July and August dates Calling all sci-fi fans and Demogorgon devotees: this Stranger Things prequel is dark, dazzling, and nothing short of mind-blowing. With West End stagecraft at its most cutting-edge, it's a thrill ride for older kids (12+) and teens, whether they're mega-fans of the Netflix series or just into supernatural suspense. Set in 1959 Hawkins, the story follows a young Henry Creel as he begins to unlock terrifying powers. The show has earned multiple Olivier nominations for its visual wizardry and storytelling. Think Stranger Things meets The Cursed Child—and yes, the effects are every bit as jaw-dropping live. The Play That Goes Wrong - Save up to 32% on July and August dates  This is one show where everything goes wrong—and that’s exactly why it’s so right. This side-splitting farce follows an amateur dramatics group whose murder mystery descends into absolute chaos. Expect collapsing sets, forgotten lines, and perfectly-timed disaster. It’s impossible not to laugh. Perfect for families with kids 8+, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser—silly enough for kids, smart enough for adults. Winner of the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, this long-running favourite at the Duchess Theatre is slapstick at its finest. 101 Dalmatians - Save up to 36% on July and August dates With clever puppetry, brilliant design and a villain you’ll love to hiss at (hello, Cruella), it’s ideal for younger audiences - and a fantastic intro to live theatre. The plot follows the courageous journey of Pongo and Missis as they race to rescue their stolen pups from Cruella de Vil’s clutches. This charming, family-friendly show is returning due to popular demand after a hit 2022 season.  The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe - Save up to 52% on August dates Step through the wardrobe and into a magical world in this breathtaking adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ fantasy classic. With epic visuals, haunting music and strong moral themes, it’s an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike. The story follows Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they discover the enchanted land of Narnia, where an evil White Witch has cast an eternal winter. With the help of the noble lion Aslan, they must find the courage to fight for freedom. A hit on its last West End run, it's a perfect choice for kids 6+ and fantasy fans of all ages. Alice in Wonderland - Save up to 42% on July and August dates This whimsical reimagining of Lewis Carroll’s beloved tale is full of colour, music and absurdity, perfect for the imaginative minds of younger theatregoers. Performed in the gorgeous surroundings of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, it’s a dreamlike experience that turns theatre into a real adventure. Follow Alice as she tumbles into a world of talking animals, tea parties and time-obsessed rabbits. This family-friendly production features playful staging, clever costume design and a whole lot of heart. It’s a gentle, surreal trip that’s just the right amount of bonkers. Plan now, and save big While some summer holiday plans send prices into orbit, the West End is offering half-price magic for all ages. With weatherproof venues, top-notch entertainment and shows that spark imaginations, these deals are a no-brainer. So whether it’s sizzling sunshine or umbrella season, treat your family to a day they’ll never forget - and do it without breaking the bank. Grab your discounted tickets today before they vanish faster than Marty McFly’s family photo.

"Get yourself a cat!" Fagin cries as he narrowly escapes Bullseye. His wry advice to Bill is met with laughter from the packed Gielgud Theatre, but this production has a ferocity far sharper than its playful exterior might suggest. The show may carry a high-spirited, familiar tune or two, but, much like Sikes’ sidekick, its bite is fierce. A suffocating darkness bubbles around the edges, staying true to the gritty heart of Dickens' twisted tale.  The atmosphere is thick with tension as we catch glimpses of Victorian streets, funeral parlours, workhouses and bedsits. The claustrophobic nature of these settings is expertly crafted by lighting design duo Paule Constable and Ben Jacobs. Their masterful manipulation of light guides the audience through a contrasting world that is both menacing and joyous. The lighting effortlessly enhances the narrative, casting ominous shadows where characters seem to vanish in the pitch black night. A particular highlight is the eerie figure of the aforementioned Bullseye, brought to life through shadow, – a creature of menace, conjured from the very fabric of darkness. The sets, designed with a stark, black-and-white aesthetic, add a haunting layer to the production, while the sharp angles and silhouettes add an almost gothic touch to the familiar streets of Victorian London. However, there is humour to be found here. World-renowned director and choreographer, Matthew Bourne, expertly deploys ‘coffin choreography’ to much delight. Characters jump in and out of the polished wooden box, a funny but striking visual metaphor that serves as a constant reminder of the harsh realities Oliver faces.