Les Miserables - School Edition

York has always shown a certain reluctance towards celebrations involving Guy Fawkes since he is an old boy of one of the city’s schools and those who, like me, chose what others might regard as his night on which to attend this production were rewarded with fireworks of a quite different sort.  These will, however, remain in the memory much longer. 

There have been two previous productions by the youngsters of the Youth Section but we now realise that these were simply a means of warming-up for “the big one”.  Although this is described as the school edition, it remains a considerable undertaking, involving two large teams of young people, here performing for five times each and, in the case of some of the older principals, all ten performances.

The words and music of this show are such that, even if you are not quite sure of the politics or the cause for which you are fighting, you are moved to sing them with the conviction that it is your side which will win. This certainly came across from the entire cast. Whilst the performances of all the principals and particularly the two principal protagonists cannot be under-estimated, I particularly enjoyed the contributions of Hannah Richardson as Eponine and Sam Rippon as Marius. Their delivery of their respective songs was full of the emotion which the writers intended by way of contrast from the somewhat noisier chants of the various crowd scenes.  The 12 strong orchestra provided excellent support, no mean feat with a sung-through musical such as this which requires their continuous participation. Although the set was fairly simple, the scene changes, not least of which involved the barricade, were skilfully handled.            

With its rather sombre story it is not a show in which it can be said that the performers could be seen to be thoroughly enjoying themselves and credit must go to the Director for ensuring that all the cast remained in character throughout.  I am certain that they will have enjoyed the experience and many will have wonderful memories for years to come. I was also delighted to learn that some of the older members will take part in the parent Company’s production in March. Surely, that’s what having a Youth Section is all about.

Those members of the cast who do feel the need for the usual fireworks will have many other opportunities in years to come.  Until it is released for adult companies, however, the same cannot be said of this show.     

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