Unexpected Twist is a re-telling of the Charles Dickens classic, Oliver Twist, by one of the best-loved figures in the children’s book world, Michael Rosen.
Combining two stories in one; Rosen’s new tale alongside the Dickens classic that inspired it, Artistic Director James Dacre (Olivier Award-nominated Our Lady Of Kibeho) and designer Frankie Bradshaw’s (Two Trains Running) production brings to vivid life the worlds of both Shona and Oliver as their stories twist together, unexpectedly!
Adapted for the stage by BAFTA award-winning playwright Roy Williams (Soul, Sucker Punch) with original music by rising R&B star Yaya Bey and BAC Beatbox Academy’s Conrad Murray, Unexpected Twist is a thrilling new production from the producing partnership behind Holes and The Jungle Book that will tour the UK following its Northampton premiere.
Unexpected Twist has choreography by Olivier Award-winning Arielle Smith (Jolly Folly), musical direction by Conrad Murray, lighting design by Rory Beaton (Death Drop), sound design by Leigh Davies with casting by Annelie Powell CDG. The creative team also includes Sarah Stacey (Associate Director), Gurkiran Kaur (Voice Coach) and Kate Waters (Fight Director).
“I have always been a huge lover of theatre and the dramatic arts. I believe in the power and value of live performance and rate it as an equal to all the other literary activities. I can’t describe what a thrill it is for me to know Unexpected Twist is going to be a play. I can ‘see’ it as being a funny, tough, edgy, contemporary, powerful show. I am desperate to see it.“ Michael Rosen
I’m not too sure what to say for my initial impressions. I didn’t know what to expect. What more could anyone do with Oliver Twist?
Let me tell you, this is something everyone needs to see. It’s brought Charles Dickens into 2023 . This is the kind of show that will not only get the youth of today back into theatre but anyone who appreciates harmonies and vocal talent streaming to the theatre .
No instruments or orchestra, all sounds and noises made by the performers live whilst acting.
It’s Hamilton on a local scene and is not to be missed and dare I say more relevant and better! The talent of the young cast is obscene and the modern day twist on a classic novel is not just so well done, it’s so on point and up to date it unreal.
Mixing modern terminology, with Dickensian charm and modern humour and banter. This is a great lever to opening up the theatre for everyone.
Amazing production and excellent sound and performances, A refreshing injection into the world of theatre which should not be missed!
- Unexpected Twist_Alex Hardie_Liyah Summers_Alexander Lobo Moreno_Nadine Rose Johnson_Kate Donnachie_photo Manuel Harlan
- Unexpected Twist_Alexander Lobo Moreno and company_photo credit Manuel Harlan
- Unexpected Twist_Drew Hylton, Rosie Hilal, behind-James Meteyard, Liyah Summers, Polly Lister_photo Manuel Harlan
- Unexpected Twist_Drew Hylton, Thomas Vernal_photo credit Manuel Harlan
- Unexpected Twist_Liyah Summers, Nadine Rose Johnson, Alex Hardie, Kate Donnachie_photo credit Manuel Harlan