Matt Lucas will take on the role of Fagin in Lionel Bart’s iconic musical Oliver! at London’s Gielgud Theatre from 22 September to 1 November 2026.
The announcement comes as the hit production enters its third year in the West End, continuing its successful run under the direction and choreography of Matthew Bourne.
Lucas is no stranger to the stage, having recently received acclaim for his performance as Thénardier in Les Misérables: The Arena Concert Spectacular, while his extensive screen career includes Little Britain, Doctor Who, Wonka, Paddington, Bridesmaids and Gladiator II.
Speaking about joining the production, Matt Lucas said: “I’ve always wanted to appear in Oliver! It was the first West End musical I ever saw, aged 6, and I adored it. Apparently, despite my considerable range, I am considered slightly too old now to play the title role, so instead I shall be appearing as Fagin. It’s always a treat to reunite with Cameron, and, of course, to get the opportunity to work with Matthew Bourne. I love this incredible new production and am thrilled and honoured to now be a part of it.”
Producer Cameron Mackintosh welcomed Lucas to the company, while also paying tribute to current Fagin Simon Lipkin, who will take a short break from the production.
Mackintosh said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that the one and only Matt Lucas is going to bring his incomparable talent to the role of Fagin for six weeks from the end of September, while the dazzling Simon Lipkin takes a break from reviewing the situation as he becomes a father for the first time, to whom we send our best wishes. Matt has just triumphed as Thenardier in the LES MIS Arena Spectacular at the Royal Albert Hall and will come to OLIVER! hot foot from being part of the upcoming all-star season of LES MIS at New York’s legendary Radio City Music Hall at the end of this month.”
Lucas joins a cast led by Ava Brennan as Nancy, Aaron Sidwell as Bill Sikes, Aaron MacGregor as the Artful Dodger, Oscar Conlon-Morrey as Mr Bumble, Katy Secombe as Widow Corney, Stephen Matthews as Mr Sowerberry/Dr Grimwig, Jamie Birkett as Mrs Sowerberry/Mrs Bedwin and Philip Franks as Mr Brownlow.
Olivier Award nominee Simon Lipkin will continue as Fagin until 20 September before returning to the role from 3 November following the birth of his child.
Based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel, Oliver! follows orphan Oliver Twist as he escapes the workhouse and finds himself among Fagin’s gang of young pickpockets in Victorian London. Featuring beloved songs including Food Glorious Food, Consider Yourself, You’ve Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two, I’d Do Anything, Oom Pah Pah and As Long As He Needs Me, the musical remains one of the most celebrated works in British theatre.
Produced and revised by Cameron Mackintosh, Oliver! is directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne, co-directed by Jean-Pierre van der Spuy, with design by Lez Brotherston.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
