Les Miserables

Les Misérables has been a firm favourite with audiences since it premiered in Paris in 1980. It has been running in London since October 1985, making it the longest-running musical in the West End and the second longest-running musical in the world.  One could be excused for thinking a version performed by young people might not quite match the professional production, but they could not be more wrong. 

The set was very cleverly devised with four trucks on wheels with staircases and piles of wood that formed the barricade when put together. Two sections were used in a V formation for Javert’s suicide where he fell backwards in the gap at the end of the song in a real stand out moment in the show.  Another very strong piece of stagecraft was when the whole barricade was turned by 90 degrees when Gavroche goes to the other side to collect ammunition. As he died and was lifted back up the barricade, it turned back as you watched the young character carried over the top and back to the side of the students. A really clever use of the set and another breathtaking moment in the production. Paired with amazing atmospheric lighting, smoke and gun shots, the whole scene was so realistic, the audience were fully immersed in the action.

The strength in this production, however, was undoubtedly the young people on the stage. They were magnificent. Indeed, it was hard to believe the principals were only 14- 17 years old.  The maturity of their performances was simply breathtaking.  

Jean Valjean - Jamie really shone in his acting, showing a real sensitivity in the way he portrayed this troubled man. He sang with real emotion and his rendition of ‘Bring him home’ had the audience in tears. A remarkable performance by this young man.

Javert - Joe had a lovely rich tone in the lower register of his voice and gave a very strong performance. He sang ‘Stars’ beautifully and the way he fell backwards keeping his body completely straight when he committed suicide was effective and shocking in equal measure.

Fantine - There was another strong performance from Bella.  Her acting was excellent but it was her performance of ‘I dreamed a dream’ that had the audience enraptured. The emotion and quality of singing was outstanding.

The Thenardiers - Noah and Evie had great characterisation as this wicked pair. They handled the comedy admirably and worked well together. 

Young Cosette - Lottie sang ‘Castle on a Cloud’ beautifully. Very well done.

Cosette - Amelie gave a very mature performance and showed a real sensitivity in her scenes with Marius. A very natural performance and a very believable pairing.

Marius - Alfie was equally excellent in his scene as a principled student, fighting for his beliefs, as he was in his very poignant scenes with Cosette. He showed off his beautiful voice in ‘Empty Chairs at Empty Tables’ and tackled every scene with sincerity and conviction. An all round first-rate performance. 

Eponine - Lauren had a strong voice and was wonderfully feisty in her portrayal of this character. Her rendition of ‘On my own’ was yet another stand out moment in the show.

Enjolras - AJ, together with the rest of the students, sang with gusto and a real spirit that perfectly encapsulated the hopes and ambitions of the young students. He had a great energy and led the group magnificently.

Gavroche - Alice gave a spirited performance as this cheeky character and performed every number with huge confidence and vitality. Excellent.

The strength of the principals was matched by the ensemble, whose characterisation was superb. The production team and cast had obviously worked really hard to make sure they knew exactly who they were and how they fitted into the story. With entrances through the audience and across the front of the stage, the ensemble were used to maximum effect. It is very rare to see young people who stay in character throughout the entire production, especially when they are not in a principal role, but that is exactly what this young cast managed to do. Their concentration and commitment was astonishing and they should all feel very proud. 

As you will have gathered, there are not enough superlatives for this outstanding production. The audience were carried through the story by this talented cast, quite rightly cheering after every song and leaping to their feet after the rousing finale. There are not many occasions when you get to see a production of this calibre. We went home as emotional wrecks but so grateful to have experienced it. Bravo! 

 

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