By: Alex Spindler Professor Stephen Skiles of the newly-developed Xavier Department of Music and Theatre is not new to the Cincinnati theater scene. In fact, he was a founding member of the distinguished Cincinnati Shakespeare Company back in 1994. Now, 20 years later, Skiles returns to the troupe in its most recent production of Charles Dickens’ “Oliver Twist” as Mr. Brownlow. Xavier Newswire (XN): As an actor and professor, how has this production of “Oliver Twist” been for you? Stephen Skiles (SS): Coming back to the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company required a significant adjustment period. Almost 20 years ago, we were … Continue reading Prof. Stephen Skiles returns to Cincinnati Shakespeare Company stage after 20 years

Arts & Entertainment

“Oliver Twist” a success

12 Sep 2013

By: Alex Spindler The Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s 20th anniversary season kicked off with their opening night performance of Charles Dickens’ “Oliver Twist.” Adapted by Neil Bartlett, “Oliver Twist” follows the journey of orphaned Oliver from his terrors in a rogue band of ne’er-do-wells to his eventual adoption by the wealthy and loving Mr. Brownlow, played by Xavier University Theatre Department’s Professor Stephen Skiles. As the show began, an a capella performance welcomed everyone in a true storybook- like fashion. This production offered something which remains absent in many adaptations and performances of Dickens’ work: a thrilling pulse. In a production … Continue reading “Oliver Twist” a success