Inspired by Charles Dickens’ classic work of literature Oliver Twist, Avant Garde Dance and The Place are set to present Fagin’s Twist, from 28 September–15 October following a national tour. It will be the first major production and UK tour by Avant Garde Dance since 2012. In an ambitious reimagining of Oliver Twist, the innovative hip hop and contemporary dance company will present an evocative story of Fagin’s youth, corrupted by greed and poverty.
Fagin’s Twist features five of the familiar characters: Oliver; Fagin; Bill Sykes; Nancy and the Artful Dodger, but reimagines the paths of their lives and their individual circumstances. Dickens wrote the novel Oliver Twist less than 15 minutes from The Place in the London borough of Camden, as a commentary on child poverty and social injustice. Twists have been added to the tale to create a poignant, coming-of-age dance drama which draws parrallels between Victorian London and the modern society we inhabit.
The piece adds subtle layers of texture and precision through working with a dramaturg, accompanied by a specially written score. The piece will 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. It is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
The company Avant Garde Dance was formed by Artistic Director Tony Adigun in 2001 as a creative release from the world of commercial dance he inhabited. It brings together a group of like-minded dancers to explore unusual, abstract and artistic ideas away from the mainstream. Education work is also core to the company’s ethos, with an educational workshop available for Fagin’s Twist, and a Young Dancers Participation Programme will run alongside the performances for this tour.