STARRING Brian Conley in the famous frockcoat of Fagin, one of Britain’s most beloved musicals Oliver! arrives at The Mayflower next week.

Bringing Dickens’ timeless characters vividly to life with its ever-popular story of the boy who asked for more, Cameron Mackintosh’s brand new production starts a month long run on Tuesday.

Lionel Bart’s sensational score includes Food Glorious Food, Consider Yourself, You’ve Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two, and I’d Do Anything.

The ultimate entertainer, Brian Conley has starred on the West End stage as Edna Turnblad in Hairspray and Caractacus Potts in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. He was nominated for an Olivier Award for Best Actor for his role in Jolson, but is probably best known for his TV hits including The Brian Conley Show and The Grimleys.

He told Your Entertainment how he’s always fancied picking a pocket or two in Oliver!, but failed in a childhood audition.

“I was quite a chubby kid. You can’t stand there singing Food, Glorious Food with a begging bowl if you’re fat.

“It’s taken me 40 years, but I’ve got there in the end.”

n For the full interview with Brian, see tomorrow’s TV and Leisure Magazine, free with the Daily Echo.