Managing an excitable cast including 30 young actors – the youngest aged just six – is no easy feat.

But it is a task the musical director of St Albans Operatic Society’s (SAOS) latest production, Oliver!, has down to a fine art.

“It can be interesting and challenging – boys can be a bit more of a handful than girls,” jokes Phil Joslin, who is currently polishing up the show at twice-weekly high-energy rehearsals.

The cast includes many youngsters from St Albans and the surrounding area, and dad-of-two Phil says they are a talented bunch.

“It is wonderful working with a group of boys when right at the beginning you can see the potential and they are enjoying it,” explains the volunteer director, whose day job is in IT.

And preparations for the retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic tale are going well, with the music-packed show set to run over five nights at the Alban Arena.

This production is a blast-from-the-past for musician Phil, whose first project with SAOS was Oliver! in 2003.

“I think it always brings something special and magical,” says Phil, whose show proudly presents all the beloved sing-a-longs from Lionel Bart’s original 1960 musical.

The society produces two large-scale musicals each year, giving local people the chance to show their skills.

The 50-year-old says: “I think we are very fortunate in this area to have four or five really excellent amateur companies. Audiences can see really great shows without having to go into London.”

Phil is also in charge of the 12-piece orchestra performing Lionel Bart’s original score.

“What I particularly love about musical direction is helping people find the best in themselves ,” explains Phil, who has a degree in music.

He adds: “It is such a good musical, good fun to do for the people involved.”

Oliver!, Alban Arena, Civic Centre, April 28 to May 2, 7.30pm, Wednesday and Saturday matinee, 2pm. Details: 01727 844488, alban-arena.co.uk