YOU have got to pick a pocket or two, apparently, and after watching Oliver at Knutsford's Little Theatre everyone will certainly know how to do that.

The Charles Dickens classic has been seen as a musical in theatres across the country and now it is Knutsford's turn to play host to the 19th Century thieves' guild and be caught in the magic of Oliver.

The classic tale tells the story of Oliver Twist, an orphan who finds himself alone on the mean streets of London in the late 1800s.

Alone, that is, until he hitches up with the Artful Dodger and his band of thieves who operate under the guidance and leadership of the loveable rogue Fagin.

Through this band of vagabonds Oliver learn about life the hard way and it is these hardships and experiences that toughen him up and prepare him for all the highs and lows of life he is yet to face.

Despite being a Knutsford Operatic Society production, the show has a distinctly Northwich feel to it, with Little Leigh mother and son team Debbie and Chris Hobley taking on the two of the principal roles, Nancy and Artful Dodger.

Debbie is a special school teacher who grew up with the stage and theatre in her blood, her father was an avid musical actor in Merseyside.

Since then she has gone on to perform in many shows and sings in a number of choirs and groups.

Over the past 10 years, Debbie has been an active member of Mid Cheshire Amateur Operatic Society with her favourite roles being Eliza Dolittle and Annie Oakley.

Twelve-year-old Chris is a pupil at Weaverham High School and although he has performed in several Mid Cheshire productions, is enjoying working with the rest of the cast in Knutsford and is delighted to be playing the part of Dodger.

Tickets for Oliver, which runs from October 21 to 26, are available priced from £5.50 by calling the box office on 01565 632880.

ghellam@guardiangrp.co.uk