“PLEASE, sir, I want some more.”

After four Abingdon schools’ successful production of Lionel Bart’s musical Oliver! last month, pupils at King Alfred’s Academy in Wantage, have taken up the tale, but with a fresh twist.

After delighting audiences as the leading lady in the school’s production of Les Miserables last year, 17-year-old Alys Gilbert will take the lead role in the musical, based on Charles Dickens’ classic Victorian novel, as orphan Oliver Twist.

Audiences will also be treated to an unusual take on many of the musical numbers, with alternative versions of I’d Do Anything and As Long As He Needs Me.

Alys said: “This is definitely Oliver! with a different feel to it.

“It will provide a whole new experience for the audience.”

Yasmin Bahar, 16, said: “I’ve been involved with King Alfred’s shows since Year Eight and each year has been an amazing experience.”

The show began its run at the academy’s centre site, in Portway, on Wednesday evening and will finish with two performances tomorrow, including a matinee starting at 1.30pm.

For information about tickets, call the school on 01235 225700.