Nelson Youth Theatre takes on the classics

Nelson Youth Theatre is bringing two classic shows to the Theatre Royal stage these school holidays.

Oliver Jr begins this week, running from 8 - 10 April, and The Sound of Music starts next week, showing from 12 - 14 April.

“They are two very well-known and much-loved shows, and most people will know all the songs,” says director Richard Carruthers.

“They are the kind of musicals where people whistle the tunes on the way into the theatre instead of on the way out.”

The Sound of Music has a cast of 45, while 65 are in Oliver Jr.

Between both shows ages range from four to 20-years-old.

Although these are both shows they have staged twice before, Richard says there has been a “strong urge” from actors to go back to doing full-length musicals.

The Sound of Music has a running time of two-and-a-quarter hours, while Oliver Jr goes for just over one hour.

“The Sound of Music is very much like the movie, and Oliver Jr, although shortened, is non-stop action,” says Richard.

“It is easy to follow, and all the pickpockets have an absolute ball.”

He says both casts have been busy rehearsing all term and can’t wait to get on stage.

“This is what they live for, these actors. They don’t want to go home from rehearsals, we try to create a happy space in youth theatre.”

After these two shows, next on the list is Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat for term two.

Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreroyalnelson.co.nz