The Indiana Area Senior High School Drama Department is proud to announce the 2026 musical Oliver!
Kaylee Higgins, IHS High Arrow Reporter
Based on the novel Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens, Oliver! follows an orphaned boy who escapes a workhouse in Victorian-era England and joins a group of pickpockets led by the Artful Dodger and Fagin.
As Oliver searches for a place where he truly belongs, the story explores themes of kindness, survival and the power of hope, even in difficult circumstances. With memorable songs, energetic dance numbers and a full cast of characters, the musical captures both the excitement and challenges of life in the city.
Freshman Emily Matty is a member of the props crew, and mentioned she joined the IHS musical this year
because she loves theater and has been participating in shows since the sixth grade.
Students have spent months preparing the production, working both on stage and behind the scenes to bring the story to life through acting, choreography, musicality, set design, and technical production. This show doesn’t only showcase a stellar high school cast, pit orchestra, and technical crew, but also an ensemble of orphans comprised of students from Eisenhower elementary.
Senior Lola Marshall, cast member, commented on rehearsing for the show: “I am rehearsing lines during
breakfast, lunch, and dinner. When I’m brushing my teeth, I’m reciting my lines. I dance as much as I can in my room.”
Opening night is next Thursday, March 12 at 7:00 p.m. The show will also run Friday, March 13, and Saturday, March 14 at 7:00 p.m. with an additional show Saturday at 1:00 p.m. Ticket prices range from $8-$12 depending on the type of purchase. At the show, audience members have the opportunity to buy concessions items and
purchase Candy Grams to send to cast and crew members.
Please take a moment next weekend to come see a fabulous show by some hard-working students, and support the performing arts of IHS.