Matt Lucas Joins Oliver! as Fagin for Six-Week West End Run

Posted on 15 Jul 2026

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

at London's [Gielgud Theatre](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/venue/gielgud-theatre-london) for a strictly limited six-week season from 22 September to 1 November 2026.

**Lucas** joins the hit revival as [**Simon Lipkin**](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/news/spotlight-on-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

, alongside an extensive career spanning television, film, theatre and bestselling children's books. His screen credits include

and

**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.”

Producer **Cameron Mackintosh** said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that the one and only Matt Lucas is going to bring his incomparable talent to the role of Fagin for six weeks from the end of September, while the dazzling Simon Lipkin takes a break from reviewing the situation as he becomes a father for the first time, to whom we send our best wishes. Matt has just triumphed as Thenardier in the LES MIS Arena Spectacular at the Royal Albert Hall and will come to OLIVER! hot foot from being part of the upcoming all-star season of LES MIS at New York’s legendary Radio City Music Hall at the end of this month.” **Lucas** joins a cast that includes **Ava Brennan** as Nancy, **Aaron Sidwell** as Bill Sikes, **Aaron MacGregor** as the Artful Dodger and **Philip Franks** as Mr. Brownlow, with **Mark Lockyer** taking over the role from 21 July. The title role of Oliver Twist is shared by **Isaac Hackett, James Miller, Thomas Newman** and **Jacob Sanders-Jones**. **Simon Lipkin** will return to the role of Fagin from 3 November 2026 following his six-week absence. Book your tickets to [*Oliver!*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/oliver-gielgud-tickets) today!