KNUTSFORD Musical Theatre Company is bringing everyone’s favourite musical back to the stage in a special year for the award-winning group.

The company is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2018, and is to stage the timeless musical Oliver! In May, featuring a 40-strong cast.

The show is being directed by Ben Ireson, the current chairman of KMTC, with Alfie Blanchard in the title role.

The Artful Dodger is played by Callum Eaves, Nancy is Lauren Cadwallader, Fagin is played by Jonathan Hall, Bill Sykes is David Hussin and Mr Bumble is Paul Corbett.

“I am delighted that the company is bringing everyone's favourite musical back to the stage,” he said.

“KMTC last performed Oliver! in 2013, so it's the right time to bring this classic show back.

“We wanted to do a show to celebrate our history with a fun family feel, and with a cast of over 40 and a few members who were in the last production of Oliver! it’s a really fantastic show choice.

“Our cast come from Knutsford, Wilmslow, Northwich, Winsford, Warrington and Manchester.”

Ben has been directing shows for KMTC for five years, with Oliver! being his debut.

Ben added: “I have a real passion for performing arts and feel at home with KMTC.

“We take risks in doing newer shows and by taking these risks we attract younger members who want to perform in modern shows.

“It's really exciting to work with long-standing members and to welcome many new members to our company.

“We have members who are or have been at drama school, professional performers and those who just like to join in as a hobby. We are inclusive and welcome everyone no matter their background.

“We are award-winning, having won Best Musical at the NODA awards for our production Our House in 2017, and receiving 11 nominations for our shows Avenue Q and Fame in 2017, with Josh Hankey walking away with Best Supporting Actor for his role as Rod in Avenue Q.

“We plan to hold a fundraising event with St Helen's Church in Northwich in September, with a night at the musicals-style evening, as well as a 75th anniversary ball at The Courthouse Hotel in Knutsford in November.

“We were delighted to receive a grant from Manchester Airport to secure a new lighting desk as well as donations from the Tesco Community Fund and Aviva Insurance Services.

“An average show can cost over £15,000 to stage and we rely entirely on support from businesses, grants and audience members - in the current climate this gets tougher and tougher.

“We still have sponsorship opportunities available, and if you are interested please contact chair@kmtc.org.uk

Oliver is being staged from May 23 to 26 at Northwich Memorial Court Theatre – with early booking discount ending on February 28. For tickets visit kmtc.org.uk or call the box office on 0800 433 7267.