Les Miserables on a grand scale

The musical Les Miserables, featuring brilliant songs created by Claude-Michel Shonberg and Alain Boublil, has thrilled audiences around the world since premiering on London’s West End in 1985.

A reimagined theatre version was staged 25 years ago and is still playing to capacity audiences, and producer Cameron Mackintosh has called up the stars of this London production as the lead performers for Les Miserables: The Arena Spectacular which is currently in Australia as part of a world tour.

And what a cast it is!

On opening night at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on May 14, Alfie Boe starred as Jean Valjean and Michael Ball excelled as his nemesis Javert (the tour has alternate performers in Killian Donnelly as Valjean and Bradley Jaden as Javert).

Comedian, TV and film star Matt Lucas plays Thenardier while veteran Australian music theatre performer Marina Prior is Madame Thenardier. Prior starred as Cosette in the original Australian production of Les Miserables.

Filipino actress and singer Rachelle Ann Go plays Fantine, a role she excelled in on the West End, and her emotionally-charged solo I Dreamed a Dream is a highlight.

The huge stage easily accommodates the orchestra, cast and ensemble, with overhead screens and lighting rig used to good effect to portray the changing scenes of the 19th century story based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel.

Les Miserables has a grand scale of music and song ranging from the full cast anthems such as Do You Hear the People Sing? to poignant numbers including Bring Him Home, One Day More and Empty Chairs at Empty Tables.

Despite being staged in an arena that can seat up to 14,000 fans, the acoustics at Les Miserables: The Arena Spectacular are excellent, whether its loud rock concert level songs or tender solos.

The story is set around Jean Valjean, a powerfully built man who serves 19 years in jail for a petty crime. After his release he breaks his parole conditions, creates a new identity and becomes a respected businessman and the mayor of the town.

Police inspector Javert has never given up the hunt for Valjean and their paths cross at various times, adding to the drama.

The action moves to Paris in 1832 where students are leading protests against the government, but are no match for the firepower of the military.

The saga is told with clever lighting, sound and staging effects, complementing the powerful performances by all the cast members – there is not a weak link on stage.

Balancing the dramatic scenes are some delightfully lighter moments with wonderful comedic effect, best shown when Prior and Lucas teaming up for Master of the House.

After opening in Sydney, the Melbourne leg of Les Miserables: The Arena Spectacular runs until May 25 followed by a Brisbane season. Each performance runs for 2 hours and 45 minutes with a 20-minute interval.

Bookings: lesmisarenatour.com.au