Comic takes Oliver! role for six weeks in the West End

Matt Lucas is to play Fagin in the West End revival of Oliver!  this autumn.

Lucas will take the role for six weeks from September 22 to November 1, while Simon Lipkin, who currently plays Fagin, takes paternity leave following the birth of his first child. 

Lucas said Oliver! was the first West End musical he saw, at the age of six. 

‘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,’ he said. 

‘It’s always a treat to reunite with Cameron, and, of course, to get the opportunity to work with Matthew Bourne [director and choreographer of the show]. 

‘I love this incredible new production and am thrilled and honoured to now be a part of it.’

Tickets are available here.

Published: 15 Jul 2026