St John’s College and Sacred Heart College proudly present Oliver!, the classic musical by Lionel Bart — boldly reimagined with a distinctly 1990s Aotearoa twist.
Set between Northland and Auckland, this powerful adaptation places Dickens’ timeless story within the realities of poverty in 1990s New Zealand. From asking for “Food, Glorious Food” to discovering where he truly belongs, this Oliver learns that sometimes you’ve got to pick a pocket of courage, consider yourself part of something bigger, and hold on through the Oom-Pah-Pah of life.
Led by a cast of extraordinarily talented teenagers from St John’s and Sacred Heart College — and supported by a vibrant group of Year 5 and 6 students from Marian Primary School — this production is bursting with youthful energy, commitment, and heart. With a dynamic ensemble cast, high-energy choreography, and a thread of Kiwiana woven throughout, this is not your traditional Oliver!. It’s raw, relevant, and grounded in the lived experiences of our own backyard — while still delivering the unforgettable songs and stirring moments audiences love.
Join us for a bold and moving take on a classic — a story about finding your place, standing tall, and daring to ask for more.