LIONEL Bart's Oliver! is a classic musical that pleases audiences on screen and stage, and The Blandford School's production is no different.

The stage is covered in graffiti, including a Banksy artwork, which complements the directorial choice to set the show in the present day. The use of scaffolding creates different locations around London.

Hit songs such as "Consider Yourself" and "Oom Pah Pah" get a modern update with raves, hip-hop dancing and even flossing. The group sounded rich and full over the live orchestra, conducted by Nicola Fulker.

The fact that these students are aged between 12-18 did not stop them from putting on a superb performance.

The dancing is outstanding, with all the ensemble attacking each breakdance move with attitude and power. A particular stand out song was "Be Back Soon" where Fagin's gang almost looked like an army, dancing in sync.

Charlie Biggs delivered a heartwarming performance in the lead role of Oliver. Starting slightly nervously, Biggs grew into his character, and it was beautiful to see his confidence grow on stage for his final solo in "Who Will Buy".

As with a lot of school productions, there are usually more girls involved than boys. Using this to their advantage, some of the leading characters, such as Fagin and the Artful Dodger, were turned into female roles.

Molly Garter shone as the Artful Dodger, with a brilliant amount of cheekiness and confidence.

Emma Wright owned the stage with her funny and sassy performance of Miss Fagin.

Ellen Wyldes delivered the fiesty role of Nancy well, giving an emotional performance of the famous "As Long As He Needs Me".

Although there were some sound issues throughout, the talented cast of young people didn't let that phase them and handled the interruptions with professionalism.

These fantastic young people deserved the standing ovation they received.