The Ellis family connection to Lionel Bart’s ‘Oliver!’ is a multi-generational story that mirrors the evolution of the South African stage itself. It spans decades, from the historic 1962 premiere to later celebrated revivals.

1962: The Premiere at the Brooke Theatre

In February 1962, the Brian Brooke Company brought ‘Oliver!’ to South African audiences for the very first time at the legendary Brooke Theatre in Johannesburg. In this landmark production, Aubrey Ellis played the role of Noah Claypole, the undertaker’s apprentice. Performing alongside theater greats like Arne Gordon (Fagin) and Judy Layne (Nancy), Aubrey was part of the original cast that introduced this Dickensian masterpiece to the nation.

A Family Affair

• Aubrey Ellis (Senior): Having started as Noah Claypole, he played 5 small character parts in the show
• Beryl Ellis: A constant presence in the company, Beryl’s ‘sweet, gentle soprano’ graced the production, her voice remaining a hallmark of the show.
• Aubrey Jnr. (Virgil): Following in his parents’ footsteps, young Aubrey Jnr. made his professional debut at just five years old as one of Fagin’s boys, famously described by critics as the ‘extra salt’ that made the show memorable.

The Brooke Legacy

The Brooke Theatre was more than just a venue; it was the epicenter of commercial theater in Johannesburg. For the Ellis family, these boards were where a legacy was forged—from the premiere in 1962 to the national tours that followed. It remains a cornerstone of their shared history, documenting a family that didn’t just perform in the theater, but lived within it.