Les Miserables: A Theatrical Masterpiece Unveiled
In the heart of London’s West End, the renowned Sondheim Theatre (formerly the Queen’s Theatre) plays host to the West End’s longest-running musical, Les Misérables. The timeless production has returned with a stellar cast that leaves no note unturned, delivering a haunting and inspiring performance that lingers long after the final curtain falls.
It’s a bold move for any show to discard its original production and carry on as if nothing has changed. Yet, ‘Les Misérables’ stands as a remarkable exception. This enduring musical could be transported to any setting – space, underwater, or even to the height of the Hittite empire – and as long as the singing remains impeccable, it would essentially remain the same beloved show.
Whether you’re a fan of the timeless classic ‘Les Misérables’ or seeking an electrifying experience, our reviews cover the best of London’s musical theater, including a captivating tribute to Tina Turner’s extraordinary career.
The Grand Return after Six Months
In case you missed it, the world’s longest-running musical, which has never stopped playing, recently took a six-month hiatus. This hiatus was to allow for the renovation of the Sondheim Theatre, formerly known as the Queen’s Theatre, by proprietor and producer Cameron Mackintosh. ‘Les Misérables’ has returned, not in the original Trevor Nunn RSC production, but in a new(ish) version helmed by Laurence Connor and James Powell. This new production has already graced stages around the world, with London being the final stronghold of the ‘classic’ ‘Les Mis’.
A Departure from Tradition
The decision to part ways with the original production has stirred mixed reactions. Some die-hard fans are heartbroken that the exact show they grew up with no longer exists, while the original creative team, particularly director Trevor Nunn, understandably feels a sense of betrayal. However, the loss of the old revolving stage, while mourned by many, has proven to be a bearable sacrifice.
While the production may have undergone changes, the core elements remain intact. The songs are the same, the score retains its timeless beauty (with a few ’80s touches smoothed out in recent years), the costumes and cast members remain faithful to the original, and the text still follows the adaptation crafted by Nunn and John Caird based on Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil’s original French production. Even Matt Kinley’s new design pays homage to the old, ensuring a seamless transition.
Some may debate the significance of Fifty Nine Productions’ brooding, oil-painting-style projections – whether they are a marvelous innovation or mere window dressing. Yet, even with potential changes, ‘Les Misérables’ remains unmistakably itself, proving that while some elements may evolve, the heart and soul of this timeless musical endure.
Musical Magic
One hallmark of a great musical is its ability to leave a lasting impression, and Les Misérables certainly achieves this feat. The melodies are so enchanting that they stay with you, serenading your thoughts even as you wake up the morning after the show. It’s the kind of experience that makes you contemplate a change in career path, perhaps pursuing a life in musical theatre.
A Theatrical Privilege
Witnessing Les Misérables at the Sondheim Theatre feels like a privilege. The production invites you to “hear the people sing” once more, and it’s an experience that resonates deeply with the audience. This rendition of the musical, while based on the 2009 touring show created by directors Laurence Connor and James Powell, carries a different charm. It is less flashy than the original, focusing on authenticity and emotional depth.
Transcending Time and Place
The set design by Matt Kinley is a marvel in itself. It effortlessly transitions from the bustling streets of Paris to the profound loneliness of its characters. Utilizing projections inspired by Victor Hugo’s paintings, it captures the essence of 19th-century Paris while remaining universally relevant. Paule Constable’s lighting enhances the atmosphere, creating a sense of entrapment and fleeting moments of warmth and hope within the prison walls.
Captivating Performances
While the staging is poetic and powerful, it’s the exceptional vocal performances that steal the spotlight. Jon Robyns as Valjean delivers a captivating portrayal, with a voice that exudes depth, strength, and tenderness. Carrie Hope Fletcher’s Fantine is a memorable blend of vulnerability and strength, while Bradley Jaden’s Javert brings the right amount of complexity to the character. Shan Ako, as Éponine, shines in her rendition of “On My Own,” leaving a lasting impression.
Ensemble Excellence
The ensemble numbers are a true highlight, igniting the entire theater with their energy. In a world where hope is a precious commodity, these stirring ensemble performances resonate deeply, reminding us all of the possibility of a brighter tomorrow.
Les Misérables at the Sondheim Theatre is more than just a musical; it’s a transcendent experience that combines outstanding performances, evocative set design, and a timeless score. It captures the essence of a bygone era while remaining profoundly relevant, making it a must-see production for anyone seeking an unforgettable night at the theater.
Les Misérables: A Timeless Epic of Passion and Imperfections
The enduring success of ‘Les Misérables’ is nothing short of remarkable. It defied the critics’ initial reviews when it premiered in 1985 to become the longest-running West End musical in history. While some long-running shows may struggle to maintain their quality over time, ‘Les Misérables’ continues to captivate audiences with its towering passion, operatic intensity, and unforgettable music.
Unlike some long-running musicals that may fall short in quality (‘The Mousetrap’ being a notable example), ‘Les Misérables’ thrives on its visceral, gut-level impact. Its powerful multilayered vocal arrangements and belting tunes strike a chord deep within the audience. When performed by world-class singers, a tradition upheld by producer Cameron Mackintosh, the musical hits you right in the solar plexus. It has the unique ability to overwhelm and move viewers, leaving a lasting impression that transcends mere entertainment.
Critics and audiences alike have grappled with the complex structure of ‘Les Misérables.’ On the surface, it appears as a taut moralistic thriller, exploring the contrasting beliefs of ex-convict-turned-hero Jean Valjean and his relentless pursuer Javert. Valjean’s belief in the potential for redemption clashes with Javert’s unwavering conviction that people cannot change. However, the narrative complexity arises from its connection to the Paris Uprising of 1832, a relatively obscure historical event that remains uncontextualized and unexplained.
Conclusion
Despite its brilliance, ‘Les Misérables’ is not without its flaws. There are moments of sentimentality that may strike some as excessive. Additionally, the musical has been criticized for its portrayal of women, often categorized as either bawdy or virtuous figures with limited depth. However, in the current production, performers like Carrie Hope Fletcher and Shan Ako breathe life into their roles, infusing their characters with vulnerability and humanity.
Laurence Connor and James Powell’s ‘new’ production of ‘Les Misérables’ has not sought to address these longstanding issues or alter the show’s structure. This decision underscores the musical’s status as a continuity, preserving the essence that has made it an iconic piece of London’s theatre scene. Despite its imperfections and quirks, ‘Les Misérables’ remains an absurd and magnificent show that shows no sign of relinquishing its title as London’s longest-runner.