“Oliver!” a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel which features a young orphaned Oliver Twist who faces a difficult livelihood in mid-19th century London, will be staged at 7 p.m. April 1, 2 and 2 p.m. April 3, auditorium, Northampton Area High School, 1619 Laubach Avenue, Northampton.

First-year NAHS musical director Gianna Beleno, a Muhlenberg College graduate in theater and previous vocal director for shows at NAHS, says her students have worked hard to “breathe vivacious life” into the characters they portray.

Beleno’s updated choreography enhances the original Broadway production. Beleno says she is proud of the theatrical and musical achievements by her cast of 41 students who have transformed the Charles Dickens’ novel “Oliver Twist” (1837–39) into an entertaining stage production.

Costume Designer is Judy Purcell. Lighting Designer is Brett DeAngelis. Set Designer is Damon Gelb. Set Constructor is Lauren MacCready. Music Director is Timothy Carpency.

The musical premiered in 1960 in London’s West End and in 1964 on Broadway with multiple revivals and tours over the past 50 years. The Broadway show was nominated for nine Tonys (including featured actor for Davy Jones, who became lead singer of The Monkees), and received three Tonys, including original score (Lionel Bart, who wrote music and lyrics). A film version, directed by David Lean, was released in 1968.

Popular songs include “Food, Glorious Food,” “Consider Yourself,” “I’d Do Anything” and “As Long As He Needs Me.”

Tickets: 610-262-7812, ext. 11201