‘Les Misérables’
is arguably the most well known musical in the world. It’s been running for 29
years in the West End but still remains a jaw dropping, heart-warming piece of
theatre and every change of cast brings a new and original atmosphere to the
show.
My second visit comes after my interest in
theatre has heightened and I was not disappointed by the standard that the
newly polished cast rises to. Each individual raises their game higher than I
have ever seen it and, as one of the graduates of the cast, I was most
impressed by Michael Colbourne who’s Enjolras was powerful, convincing and
who’s voice filled the theatre with more influence than anyone else’s. One of
the youngest members of the cast has the show stopping voice that everyone
dreams to have at that age. Gavroche made the audience gasp in awe of his
talent and almost got a round of applause after his death.
No surprise came as the light’s fell and
the familiar overture filled the audience with anticipation and excitement.
Peter Lockyer takes to the role of Jean Valjean and plays him convincingly
while Rob Houchen’s Marius has the elegance and drive needed, displayed
beautifully in his poignant rendition of ‘Empty Chairs and Empty Tables’ where
the pain and memory of his friends absorbs the audience. The Thénadier’s
add the comedic and uplifting moments to the show but also demonstrate the
vulgarity and lack of morals in society at the time. Although I mention all the
fantastic lead roles, there was not a single cast member out of place or
letting the cast down, every person was astonishingly captivating and even
provided some of the more memorable moments of the show.
Set, lighting and costume, as always, are an
important part of conveying the setting but also the personality of each
character. The lighting was simple but used bright colours in comedic moments
and a bright white light to symbolize the death of some major characters. The
use of spotlight’s also impressed me; showing the progression of time for Jean
Valjean carrying Marius and flashes for slow motion which added to the effect
of the physical control each member of the cast displayed. The set
naturalistically converted the blank stage into an intimidating barricade with
the use of the revolving stage which turned tirelessly and was used to the
shows advantage to show movement, give slick scene changes and give us an all
round view of the action; especially during the barricades.
I'm sure I don't need to say to much about the famous music,. After seeing the show, you understand the beauty of the story is told through the unimaginable standard of singing and the incredible melodies which we warm to so quickly.
I was a lot more impressed than I expected
to be. Although last time I saw the show I had the novelty of singing on the
stage, for me it lacked passion that would intrigue an audience. However, this
time I could not take my eye of the stage and with each scene I was even more
enthralled with the effortlessly executed excitement. A must see for everyone
and I am sure it will be around for many more years.
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