Rapscallions and ne’er-do-wells with an interest in musical theatre will wish to see “Oliver” as performed by the Windham Center Stage Theatre this November.

Adapted from the 1838 Charles Dickens novel “Oliver Twist,” Windham Center Stage’s production of “Oliver” focuses on the terrible conditions children and workers of the era faced, including child labor.

Director Leo Lunser, 57, of Sanford, said the dark, brooding plot of the story is contrasted with uplifting musical numbers to create a more enjoyable theatre experience.

Musical Director Jody Bagley, 20, of Portland, agreed with Lunser that the music balances the bitter plot.

“The whole story is a lot brighter than the original,” Bagley said.

Lunser, who has lost count of the number of plays he’s directed, said he loved theatre as soon as he tried it.

“I can get up on stage and do weird things and not be held accountable,” Lunser said.

Lunser will also be playing the role of Fagin, the villainous gang-leader and corrupter of children.

Jamie McBride, 10, of Windham plays the title role. McBride, who played the Tin Man last spring in The Wizard of Oz, says this will be his fifth play.

“It’s a big time commitment,” McBride said. “You have to basically write off all your weekends.”

Tickets are $10 for seniors and students and $12 for adults. Shows will be on Nov. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 and 18 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 5, 11, 12, and 18 at 2 p.m. All shows will be at the Windham Community Center on School Road.