Birmingham Hippodrome welcomes Fagin’s Twist, an ambitious reimagining of Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist by innovative hip hop / contemporary dance company Avant Garde Dance, led by Artistic Director Tony Adigun this October. Taking the classic piece of literature as its starting point, Fagin’s Twist presents an evocative story of Fagin's youth, corrupted by greed and worn down by poverty. Tony Adigun adds a twist to this to create a poignant, coming-of-age dance drama which draws parallels between Victorian London and the modern society we inhabit.
Fagin’s Twist features five of the familiar Oliver Twist characters: Oliver; Fagin; Bill Sykes; Nancy and the Artful Dodger but reimagines the paths of their lives and their individual circumstances. Some offer us rare glimpses of human pathos, whilst others are seen in a darker, more mysterious light.
For the production, the company has worked with dramaturg Adam Peck and writer Maxwell Golden to add subtle layers of texture and precision. The eclectic score is made up of music meticulously selected by Tony Adigun, with sound design by Brian Hargreaves. It includes original compositions by Benji Bower and Seymour Milton and tracks by underground artists including Mika Vainio and Tisme.
Tony Adigun said: ‘I have always been excited by the idea of retelling a popular tale. I wanted to add a mischievous twist that would play with, and challenge audiences’ perspectives of a much loved classic.’
Co-produced by The Place. Fagin’s Twist is commissioned by Theatre Bristol, East London Dance, Pavilion Dance South West, Dance East and The Place. Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. Tony Adigun is a Work Place artist.
