Lavin Cuddihee strikes again, this time in the form of Fagin from the musical Oliver. Hes gathered his gang of street urchins and with Lena Duncans help at the piano is putting them through their paces. His business? Teaching the kids to pick pockets from the toffs on the streets of London.

Oliver was the first musical adaptation of Charles Dickens book to become a stage success, and premiered in London in 1960. Music and lyrics are by Lionel Bart, who gained recognition writing pop songs in the 50s, and won three Ivor Novello awards as well as a Tony for this show in 1963 for best composer/lyricist. Amazingly enough, he couldnt read or write music.

Fagin, a conniving career criminal (with a wry sense of humor), teaches his gang to live off the streets and line his pockets. What a cushy job he has. Youve got to pick a pocket or two, boys, youve got to pick a pocket or two, he tells them as he takes the wallets, diamond pins and watches theyve procured.

Tryon Little Theaters production of Oliver at the Tryon Fine Arts Center runs Feb. 11 and 12 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 13 at 3 p.m., and again Feb. 18 and 19 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 20 at 3 p.m. Oliver is directed by Chris Tinkler with musical direction by Lena Duncan.

Call TLTs workshop for more information at 828-859-2466 or visit www.tltinfo.org. Tickets go on sale Jan. 28 at the workshop. Box office hours are 10 a.m. -1 p.m. Monday through Saturday.