Les Miserables - School Edition

Wow, just wow! That seems to sum up the latest masterpiece by RTSA. I left the theatre last night thinking, how am I going to find the words to give this production the credit it deserves. Well, I can’t, as there simply aren’t enough superlatives that can do justice to what I witnessed last night.

The King and Queen of Musical Theatre, Matthew Symonds (Musical Director) and Dee Bennie- Marshall, (Director and Choreographer) have done it again, and this time they have surpassed themselves, with this production of Les Miserables. The singing was an absolute joy to listen too and the harmonies on point. I must say, the diction of these young performers was excellent, some adults need to take note. Dee, once again created feast for the eyes, with great routines and imaginative direction. I particularly loved the use of the usual orchestra pit as entrances and exits.  Matt Roberts, stage manager, and his crew did a wonderful job in the swift changes of the scenes. They had a tough job with gates, and a full barricade to move around, but this moved around with ease. The orchestra, under the expert direction of Ian Gude, was probably the best I’ve ever heard at the Civic. 

Jean Valjean was expertly played by William Openshaw, who I was shocked to hear is only 14 years of age. His characterisation and vocals were faultless.  This young man has a great career ahead of him, as whatever the X Factor is, William certainly has it! Josef Summerscales as Javert, was a most commanding presence and his rendition of ‘Stars’ was breathtaking.  Javert’s suicide, was staged and acted brilliantly. Sofia Summersacles and Scarlet Buxton as Eponine  and Cosette, gave mature performances amongst their years, with Sofia perfectly capturing the unrequited love for Marius, and Scarlet treated us with a first class soprano voice. Theo Cutts, was a dashing Marius, and just like the others named above has a bright future ahead of him on the stage. Louis Parker, in his first show with RTSA, was perfect as Enjolras. His powerful voice is just what is needed for such a role. Cole Foxton and Sophie Antcliff, were a match made in heaven as the Thenardiers . This well matched pair managed to get every ounce of comedy out of these roles and they had the audience eating out the palm of their hands. It was nice to see the younger students of RTSA taking on lead roles and Chester Williams and Bonnie Hill were perfect as Gavroche and Young Cossette respectively. You could hear the sobbing in the audience when Gavroche, spoiler alert, was killed on the barricade and Bonnie’s Castle on the Cloud was beautiful. 

All principals worked exceptionally hard, however for me, the night belonged to Brooke Green as Fantine. I have seen Les Mis, countless times, but no previous Fantine has ever moved me quite like Brooke. Brooke understood who Fantine was, and believed in her story, which came across the footlights. I’m not ashamed to admit, that tears were streaming down my face at her rendition of I Dreamed A Dream. One word can describe her performance. Outstanding!

The principals were very well supported by a energetic and talented ensemble. I could go on and on about this production, but I wouldn’t want to bore you. My only regret is that I don’t have a ticket to watch it again. Bravo RTSA, bravo.

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