HA NOI - Local audiences will be treated to a stage production of Oliver Twist performed by artists from the British TNT Theatre.

Known as the first modern novel, Oliver Twist deals with the ties between poverty and crime and reflects the cruel treatment of the poor at the time. Although it was written more than 160 years ago, the social issues in the story remain compatible with present-day circumstances.

Its main characters, including Fagin, Bill, Nancy and the Artful Dodger, have become as famous as the characters of William Shakespeare.

The British TNT Theatre will tour Ha Noi, HCM City and Da Nang. The first of six shows in HCM City opened at 11am this morning at the Municipal Theatre, and the following will be held at the same time tomorrow and on Wednesday.

The night-show will kick off at 8pm tonight, followed by performances tomorrow, Wednesday and Thursday.

A single show will take place on May 9 in the central city of Da Nang's Trung Vuong Theatre.

Ha Noi Opera House will host performances at 11am on May 11 and at 8pm on May 11 & 12.

The TNT Theatre has toured in Viet Nam before, performing well known classics such as Macbeth and Romeo & Juliet. -- VNS