The Likes of Us is the story of the life of Dr Thomas Barnardo, a man who was evangelical, entrepreneurial and philanthropic, and whose crusade to rescue children living on the streets became world renowned. Described as “a musical that has existed for 40 years hidden away from view” The Likes of Us is Oliver!-esque in style and is best known for the much-quoted Tim Rice lyric: "Here I have a lovely parrot, sound in wind and limb, I can guarantee that there is nothing wrong with him".
The Likes of Us was the first collaboration between Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber in 1965.
"The Likes Of Us" was never staged until its 40th anniversary when it was performed at Andrew Lloyd Webber's annual Sydmonton Festival on 9 July 2005.
The first public performance was on 12 July 2005 at the Mermaid Theatre. It was taped by BBC Radio 2 and broadcast on 21 October 2005. Sir Tim Rice and Stephen Fry were in the cast.
Cast Requirements: Narrator; Barnardo; Syrie; Johnny; Jenny; Auctioneer; Prime Minister; Rose; Male Ensemble; Female Ensemble.
Chorus (Men, Women, Boys, Girls).
Set Requirements: London 1866.
Genre / Style: Musical, Victorian.
Rehearsal / Orchestral Material: Flute/Picc, Oboe, Clarinet I in Bb, Clarinet II in Bb, Bassoon, French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone I, Trombone II, Optional Tuba, Piano/Celeste/Synthesizer, Electric Guitar/Nylon Acoustic, Guitar/Banjo, Drums/Percussion, Optional Synthesizer, 1st Violins, 2nd Violins, Violas, Cellos, Double Bass
Musical Numbers: Twice In Love Every Day, I'm A Very Busy Man, Love Is Here, The Likes Of Us, We'll Get Him, You Can Never Make It Alone, Man Of The World, Have Another Cup of Tea.