In these dark economic days of the credit crunch, it’s comforting to know things aren’t all that bad, particularly when compared to Victorian times when orphaned children had such a hard lot.

But there's light at the end of the tunnel, as EBLOS Musical Theatre (formerly Elstree and Borehamwood Light Operatic Society) brings Lionel Bart’s Oliver! to The Radlett Centre stage, featuring all the popular hits such as Oom Pa Pa, Consider Yourself and Food Glorious Food. Performances are from Tuesday, October 21 to Sat, October 25 at The Radlett Centre, Aldenham Avenue, Radlett at 7.30pm with a matinee Saturday at 2.30pm.

Tickets: 01923 859 291, www.eblos.co.uk (£10-£12)