The massive cast takes a bow at the conclusion of "Oliver!"

Community Theatre at Its Community-est

You had to get a strong hint by reading the Playbill at last night's performance of "Oliver!", Attic Productions' version of the 1960 musical by Lionel Bart.

Right there under "production staff" was the credit for "Kid Wrangler," occupied by one Alix Groth, who was uniquely qualified as the parent of four children in the show (Calla, the 6-year-old who chewed the scenery with preciousness, Eden, Emery, a fine Artful Dodger, and Judah). 

In perusing the credits, you would also discover that Katerina Yancey, who lives in Fincastle, where the theater is located, is noted  for her direction, in addition to marketing, set design, lighting design and poster/playbill art. Multiple job titles is a rallying cry for those in community theatre.

Like so many community theater productions, this version of "Oliver!" had both its charm and its amateurism wrapped in a single package. Microphones didn't work, actors mumbled or failed to project, scenes/songs were over-long, some singing voices weren't strong enough even when amplified. But those were offset by occasional striking performances (Madolyn Wurth's professional level singing, especially "As Long as He Needs Me"), energetic Calla Groth who drew an unusual number of "awwwwwww"s. Katerina Yancey's work on the sets and lighting were solid and her direction--with those 20+ kids and a cast of more than 30--was eyebrow-raising.

I want to make special note of the costuming team of Marsha Campbell and Heather O'Bryan, who had to outfit a cast that would be big for two plays. Their work was noteworthy.

Ultimately, it is community theater, and its failures are as easy to forgive as its successes are to savor. There were plenty of both.

The show is scheduled Thursdays and Fridays 7:30 p.m., Saturdays 2:30 p.m., through Sept. 3. Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for groups or those younger than 18. Group rates are available, as well. Call 540-473-1001.