Les Misérables
Touring Production 2006
Review

Attention theatre lovers nationwide: A great show is soon to be over and should not be missed. The national touring cast of Les Mis will end it's rotation in St. Louis Missouri for a final touring performance at the Fox Theatre. The production will then be returning to Broadway as a revival (only been closed for 3 years and there's already a revival; can we say crazy?).

The following review is specifically regarding the Saturday matinee on March 18th at the Forrest Theatre in Philadelphia. All opinions are strictly my own, and comments are welcome.

Les Mis, a multithemed show dealing with the French revolution, justice, and of course romance is not an easy one to put up. That being said, the Marius Touring Group did a phenomenal job. The show opened well with superb vocals by Randal Keith (Valjean) who has a way with music that can be very spine chilling. His alternations between low and high, soft, and powerful are what truly define Valjean's character. Of course, vocals are not everything, and Keith delivered Valjean with enough fatherly persona to make audiences fall in love.

Javert, played by Robert Hunt, gave a strikingly moving performance. His vocals and acting ability were both exceedingly well polished. From his opening numbers to "Stars" to eventually his suicide, Hunt captivated audiences with his strong baritone voice and unfortunate character. The parallels between his debt and the debt of Valjean were well portrayed.

Joan Almedilla delivered a decent performance as Fantine. Her acting was overall strong, although some of it could be over the top should one sit too close, and her vocals were mostly strong with small frailty.

Cosette and Eponine, played by Leslie Henstock and Melissa Lyons, both gave strong portrayals. Cosette's love for Marius and Eponine's jealousy both evoked strong emotions from the audience.

Adam Jacobs did a wonderful job as the romantic figure Marius. His glowing voice and moving portrayal developed the plot strongly.

Gavroche (Anthony Skillman) also did a great job. His beautiful childish voice contrasting with his strong, brave attitude gave audiences a moment of dear sorrow upon witnessing his death. (I jumped 5 feet out of my seat.)


All other performers were strong, and the ensemble was incredible.

Staging was also well done. Production Designer John Napier's set served the story perfectly. Its flawless fluid motion allowed the show to flow seamlessly. David Hersey's lighting design pulled the entire show together. I could not imagine Les Mis without lights. Hersey used his equipment to point out themes, highlight plot points, evoke emotions, and of course deliver Victor Hugo's story in a most compelling form. Costumes by Andreane Neofitou and sound by Andrew Brude were both strong, though at times some of the performers were a bit hard to hear over the chorus or orchestra, which was quite wonderful.

Overall, the touring production of Les Misérables is one not to be missed. I highly recommend it for those who enjoy an emotional rollercoaster and a daytime escape from reality.

Until next time,

Gregio