Jim France couldn't wait to appear on stage as the lovable criminal Fagin in the Tony award-nominated version of Charles Dickens' "Oliver!"

France has played Scrooge in a musical version of Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," but never portrayed the leader and mentor of orphans in 19th century London, developed from the classic novel, "Oliver Twist."

The North Carolina resident and native Scotsman performs the role of Fagin in "Oliver!" which recently opened at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Mesa.

"It's one of the great parts for older men that I've never had the opportunity to do, and now I have the chance," he said.

This musical version revolves around orphan Oliver Twist, who asks for more food at a workhouse where he and his friends are treated terribly. He's thrown out on the street where he meets the Artful Dodger, who takes him under his wing and convinces Oliver to join a band of pickpockets headed by an old man named Fagin.

Oliver is rescued from a life of crime by a wealthy gentleman, who turns out to be his grandfather.

The original Broadway production was nominated for 10 Tony awards, including Best Musical, and launched the career of a young Davy Jones of The Monkees, who played the Artful Dodger.

"It's a wonderful, family-oriented story about redemption, and that's why it is so beloved by everyone," France said.

France said he's enjoyed his role as Fagin, who in the musical could be considered evil and lovable at the same time.

"You can have so much fun with the role because you have to skate the thin line of being good and bad," he said.

In addition, France shares the stage with a dozen boys mostly from the East Valley and Phoenix. The children, who range in age from 10 to 16, portray orphans and pickpockets in the show.

The veteran actor has a great deal of respect for the kids.

"They're amazing and do a great job as the orphans," he said. "Usually kids in theater are well behaved anyways, but these guys are super."

Mitchell Vantrease can be reached at 623-876-2526 or by e-mail at mvantrease@yourwestvalley.com.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: "Oliver!"

WHERE: Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa.

WHEN: Through July 26.

TICKETS: $45-$54; $22 for ages 12 and under. Show only is $25.

INFO: Call 480-325-6700, or visit www.broadwaypalmwest.com.