Les Misérables

Les Misérables by Easy Street Theatre Company – where to start?  And it won’t be with a quick resume of the story because if the show is unknown to you – apologies – what this Show Report needs to celebrate is the energy, commitment, bravery and creativity of a group who are inclusive and talented, but also stretch their limits by repeatedly trying new venues and ideas.  It is appreciated that this is because of a range of factors, but they always make it work.  

As a venue The Steam Works has the appearance of a disused factory and it will have clearly presented many logistical challenges because there is no definitive ‘theatre’ set up.  However, lighting, sound and use of the space was incredible.  Drop lights provided a candle-lit atmosphere, versatile staging had been creative and the limited set allowed the focus to be on the mesmerising performances of the cast.  Any set pieces and stage furniture were swiftly moved on and off and the impressive barricade was enhanced with lighting to allow the audience to be fully immersed in the battle which was taking place.  Cast moved with clear direction to the covered areas at the side of the performance space and there was no noise to be heard from behind the curtained areas showing the discipline of this young company.  Various exits and entrances were used and the impressive opening with the convicts coming through the back of the space within the auditorium area was very compelling.

Les Misérables includes rich and unforgettable characters, each intertwining with their own heart wrenching story.  Kai Haste Wain gave an imposing and convincing portrayal of the angst-ridden Jean Val Jean and through his commanding presence we saw Val Jean develop as a man -  a wonderful performance.  Bella Hoggart was passionate as poverty-stricken single mother Fantine – A fantastic performance capturing so many emotions with impressive vocals – beautifully done.

What are always a favourite are the mood lifting frolics in the household of the Thénardiers.  And Danil Boujada and Isla Motley entertained in their depiction of the sleazy Thénardier and Madame Thénardier respectively.  The whole company embraced the low behaviour, merciless thievery and squalor and seemed to relish the chance to explore the immoral lives of these characters in this scene.  Other highlights in Act One were the rendition of “Stars” sung by Ed Sayers as Javert which was enhanced by beautiful lighting.  Sayers was a poised Javert with excellent diction and beautiful clarity.  “A Heart Full of Love,” in which Marius (portrayed by Reuben Barnett), Éponine (played by Ella Penn), and Cosette (portrayed by Ava Jokhi) showcased their superb vocals.  Bennett and Jokhi worked well together and had great chemistry.  Penn gave an enchanting performance as Éponine, wonderfully portraying her unrequited love and tragic end.

Isaac Reid was a charming Enjolras, the dedicated revolutionary, showing compassion and conviction in his role of supporting his student brothers.  Bethan Kime as Gavroche was confident and found the essence of this young rebel and a street-smart urchin surviving and outsmarting completely on his own.  Aahana Seelam as young Cosette gave a beautiful rendition of Castle on a Cloud.  There were great performances in the supporting roles from Pearl Saxton as Young Eponine and Moses French as the Bishop of Digne with excellent characterisation from everybody on stage.  Congratulations to Artistic Director and Producer Sallianne Foster Major and Director Beth Bloor for all the input and support given to the company to inspire them to create such great characters and enabling then to give confident, believable portrayals.

The group of Students and all the featured soloists were fantastic and the wealth of talent in the group is incredible.  There had clearly been so much work with the group on the score which was wonderfully played from a mezzanine level by a nineteen-piece orchestra.  Gareth Lloyd as Musical Director & Conductor successfully elevates these young performers to ensure their mastery of some difficult harmonies.

Costumes looked fabulous and worked for the ages of the performers and the period of the show.  The props again were appropriate for the production.  Choreography by Molly Soden-Freeth made great use of the available space.

And finally, what struck me when I opened the programme wasn’t the impressive resumes of these young people who are destined to go on to great things, whether on stage or off, it was the photos of cast members in black bin sacks in Bents Green Nursery Poly Tunnels making set and painting props.  Their smiles, their enthusiasm, the giving of their time during what is a significant period in their studies says so much about this Company.  Congratulations to the Production Team and Trustees who are doing more than preparing these young performers for the stage  -  they are preparing them for life where team spirit, hard work and fun can come as a package if you find ‘your people’….and how much  better even that can be “When You Hear The People Sing!” – A wonderful evening’s entertainment.

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