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Overview:
A look into the Royal Theater Academy's 'Oliver the Musical' with ages ranging from adults to children and a new nonprofit status.
The Royal Theater Academy in Livermore is set to present “Oliver!”, a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel “Oliver Twist,” with music and lyrics by Lionel Bart.
The story follows a young Oliver throughout his journey in 19th-century Victorian England, meeting colorful characters (with proper British or Cockney accents) and learning lessons of resilience, friendship and hope.
“This production is a celebration of classic storytelling infused with heartfelt performances by our talented cast and crew,” said Trent Torain, artistic director of RTA, in a statement from the group.
The RTA has always maintained a mission dedicated to promoting individual expression and enrichment of the community through the arts, though this production celebrates the first-ever show as a nonprofit.
The 501(c)(3) status grants the company’s ability to begin fundraising campaigns to bolster its original mission, according to RTA’s statement. Ticket sales from “Oliver!” will go toward a new rehearsal space and expansion of educational programs.
“We have a very large cast of 90 (people) or so, ranging from both young children to adults,” David Wong, a performer and member of RTA, told Embarcadero Media Foundation. “This show has never been done with more than the usual 30-person cast, even on Broadway.”
Wong also noted that audiences commonly misinterpret the educational aspect of the Royal Theater Academy, often anticipating a children’s level recital.
“Talent-wise, we have experience levels spanning from novice to professional; so while you get to see cute kids as a part of the show, you’ll also get Broadway-level performances to keep you engaged,” Wong said. “The community itself prides on being inclusive and family-oriented, so everyone really does get along on and off the stage…this chemistry reflects itself when you watch the story unfolding. We’ve heard more often than not that our productions are better than some Broadway touring shows.”
Both Wong and Torain acknowledge a particularly unique aspect of performing with RTA is the irreplaceable relationships created between the adults and the children.
“RTA’s community continues to grow every year and we have seen how our children and adult performers’ mental health benefits from having this artistic outlet. Theater has definitely saved my life and it brings me great joy to be able to share that with everyone,” said Torain.
Wong echoed similar sentiments. “We help make each other better. We learn and grow together. Laugh, cry together. It’s amazing when we become a team, and regardless of background, age, experience, our shows bring us together in such a way that it is very difficult to replicate,” he said.
Wong himself is a true testament to this RTA specialty in that his whole family will be appearing in “Oliver!” the musical. In the upcoming production, the audience will see Wong as Mr. Bumble and his son Jack as Oliver.
“Oliver!” is set to open this Saturday (June 22) with performances at 2 and 7 p.m. followed by a matinee show on Sunday (June 23) at 2 p.m. at Livermore High School (600 Maple St.).
Shows will continue the following week on June 28 at 7 p.m., June 29 at 7 p.m., and June 30 at 2 p.m.
Tickets and more information are available at https://royaltheateracademy.com.
