Les Miserables School Edition

It was a pleasure to be invited to Westholme School to review ‘Les Misérables, THE SCHOOL EDITION.’ This is a moving, beautiful musical set against a backdrop of poverty and insurrection in Paris, in the early nineteenth century. As this production had three casts, alternating evenings, I saw two sets of casts live.  This review is for Saturday the 9th, I chose this evening because, for me, it was comparatively a better technical production.

Director: Amy Holland and her Assistant Director: Miss C. Roberts, created a fabulous show. The audience audibly sobbing by the end, standing in ovation as the curtain fell. Every actor on the stage had an individual personality, the company were animated and lively, dedicated to their performance. Les Misérables has wonderful but vocally challenging songs within its score and Musical Director, Mr. B. Holt had obviously collaborated hard with the company. Mr. Holt’s orchestra included some current Westholme pupils within its ranks. It was hugely impressive to hear.   The overture hushed the audience immediately, it was strong and evocative from the onset. The sound/sound effects crew: Mr. M. Bradford, Lewys Davies and Dr. S. Gough created a good mix of voice to music, sound effects were precise, gunshots loud enough to make the audience jump.

The cast and crew moved with a slick pace, everyone pulling together, scene changes occurring unobtrusively. Backstage Manager: Mr. J. Oracz and his team worked hard as the stage trucks swivelled, props came on and off, and backdrops changed. Set Design, building and props were courtesy of AI Staging and Mr. D. Lyle. The dock scene looked great; the trucks used were dressed as rudimentary staircases leading to less salubrious looking buildings painted on the backdrop. This set was used in various scenes but dressed slightly differently each time. I thought the barricades looked amazing. Made to look like furniture piled high, with levels that allowed for the fallen to drape unmoving in a poignant, visually striking display. I did like the use of dry ice during the siege and in the sewers, it added atmosphere and was not overused. The lighting/lighting design team: Ms. P. Mataskova, Dr. S. Gough, Poppy Barnett and Kerri Stephen created some stunning effects. The use of reds and blues during the battlement scenes, the flashes of light representing gunshot, all added to the ambiance. Costumes were in keeping with the era. Costumes and wardrobe were supplied by Mrs. J. Ward-Thompson and Miss Harfield, along with the Costume Club members.

Joshua Robson played Jean Valjean. Joshua was an impressive performer; he was enthusiastic and emotive.  He gave a constant performance, remaining strong throughout. His rendition of ‘Bring Him Home’ made many of the audience members weep.                                                                                                                                                             

Javert was played by Milun Patel who gave a robust performance as the tenacious Inspector. He was upright and aloof, the epitome of the strait-laced law enforcement officer. He sang with confidence; his projection was clear.                                                                 

Jacob Smith played the role of the Bishop of Digne. His voice rang out clearly, his notes just lovely. A strong, compassionate performance from Jacob.

Fantine was played by Maisie Banks.  Maisie had a clear voice. Her performance of ‘I Dreamed a Dream,’ was emotional, and heartfelt, She had the audience reaching for their handkerchiefs, for the first time of many throughout the evening.

Maya Pickford performed as Eponine. Maya was fabulous; her vocal range was strong. Her song ‘On My Own’ was emotional, another tearjerker for the audience. She had impressive stage presence. A well-thought-out performance.                                                       

The role of Cosette was played by Charlotte Kenyon. Charlotte was excellent in this role; her soprano notes were strong, her harmonies blended seamlessly. I particularly enjoyed ‘A Heart Full of Love.’

Ben Dang played Marius. Ben was wonderful in this role; he was animated, displaying an array of facial expressions. He gave a good character performance and had a strong singing voice.                                                                                                 

Thenardier was played by Isobel Fraser. Isobel had the audience laughing aloud as she squared up to people, a feisty performance with some quick wit and a fabulous song.

Charlotte Backhouse played Madame Thenardier. Charlotte had a great accent. Her comedy timing was perfect, she was loud and brash, and the audience loved it. Her vocals were clear and strong.

The role of Enjolras was played by Livvy Robson. Livvy was enthusiastic and confident. I thought her acting impressive, her fervour as the battle began and her death scene were memorable. ‘Red and Black’ was strong and emotive.

Lilly Pickup played Gavroche. Lilly was confident, delivering a convincing accent in this small but notable role.

Jessica Holden played Young Cosette. Jesica had a lovely clear singing voice, ‘Castle on a Cloud’ was simply lovely. Her acting was animated.  When the Thenardier’s threw her about like a rag doll, she fell loose, a great bit of acting.

As much as I would like to mention every actor from each performance I saw, I am afraid it is not possible. I would, however like to mention a few members from the alternate casts whom I thought gave impressive performances and therefore deserve a mention:  Alex Galiatsatos as Jean Valjean, William Kenny as Javert, Olivia Ko as Eponine, Iris Griffiths as Enjolras and Ruby Thompson as Fantine.

Westholme treated their audiences to a fantastic show. It was a visual spectacular with talented performers. I look forward to being invited to many more shows. I would like to thank Amy Holland for looking after me and my partner, we had a fabulous evening.

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