Christian Youth Theater’s energetic production of “Oliver!” will end its run on Sunday, Oct. 30, at the performing arts center on the campus of Eastlake High School.
Final performances are scheduled Friday, Oct. 28, at 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 29, at 2 and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 30, at 2 p.m.
The musical production is based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel “Oliver Twist” and is directed by Cody Combs. The cast features 10-year-old Emma Holley as Oliver, Jake Gardner as Fagan, Ivanna Quiceno and Jazmine Ruiz both playing the part of Nancy, Joshua Powers as Bill Sikes, and Corwin Batchman as the Artful Dodger along with 52 fellow cast members who are all students ages 8-18.
Additional students work on the technical aspects of the show as back stage crew, lighting and sound technicians and assist as ushers.
The story, set in 19th century England, is about a courageous young boy from the workhouses. Despite his struggles with poverty, mistreatment and lawbreaking companions, Oliver remains sweet and virtuous. In the face of tremendous peer pressure, he was a type of hero, and he touched the lives of many people.
Originally written by Charles Dickens to expose the harsh injustices of British child labor practices, Lionel Bart’s musical adaptation mellows the tale with music and humor while telling the same desperate story.
All seats are reserved. Individual ticket prices online are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.
For more information, call 588-0206 or visit the Web site at www.cytsandiego.org.
NC’s Tower of Terror offers free fright night
Got Halloween? Specifically, got free Halloween?
The city of National City does and it’s worth checking out Saturday, Oct. 29, from 5 to 9 p.m. at fire station No. 34, located at the corner of 16th Street and D Avenue.
The Tower of Terror and Halloween costume contest are both free events.
National City Firefighters dare those brave enough to visit to walk through the haunted tower and not be scared. According to the firefighters, guests can expect to find themselves lost with only their thoughts of escape. Guests may enter but be prepared to scream.
The costume contest will include prizes and free candy.
For more information, call 336-4551.
Magic Street
The fifth annual Trick or Treat on Magic Street, sponsored by radio station 92.5, will take place Monday, Oct. 31, at Otay Ranch Town Center from 5 to 9 p.m. Children in costumes can trick or treat at specially marked stores and receive free candy (while supplies last), participate in arts and crafts and enjoy the Halloween atmosphere along Main Street in the sprawling outdoor mall.
The event starts with a Halloween pet costume contest from 5 to 6:30 p.m., followed by a Thrill the World performance on the main stage in the food pavilion from 6:45 to 7 p.m., and a costume contest parade down Main Street from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Contest winners will be announced at 8:45 p.m. on the main stage in the food pavilion.
