The Bradford-based New Community Arts Academy will be taking audiences back to Dickensian London with its next production.

The society is currently rehearsing for Oliver!, Lionel Bart’s lively musical take on the Dickens classic, and director Russell Whittingham promises a “top class show”.

“We’ve got a cracking cast, including Damian Shalks as Fagin, and I think it’s going to be our best show yet,” says Russell.

Emmerdale and Hollyoaks actor Sam Townsend, who played the Artful Dodger in the West End, is giving the cast some tips during rehearsals at Bolton St James’s Church Hall.

The show runs at the New Bradford Playhouse, Little Germany, from April 1 to 5. For tickets ring (01274) 618148 or go to tncaa.com.