OBSERVER: Les Miserables
The world’s longest running musical celebrates its 40th birthday with a grand concert version titled Les Misérables, the Arena Spectacular, touring globally and performing at the Rod Laver Arena until May 25.
Presented by Cameron Mackintosh, the show is indeed spectacular – often breathtaking – performed by a multi-talented cast and fabulous orchestra of over 65, including some of the world’s most magnificent musical theatre performers.
A concert version means minimal stage actions and movement, but a splendid result has been brilliantly achieved through technical effects, the emotion-charged voices and consummate acting of performers, reinforced by huge screens conveying close-up shots of the principals’ performances.
On opening night, Alfie Boe won the audience with his superb portrayal of protagonist Jean Valjean, as did Michael Ball as antagonist Javert.
Matt Lucas as innkeeper Thénardier and Melbourne’s versatile Marina Prior (Madame Thénardier) are terrific in their comedic, villainous roles. Marina’s long-time involvement with Les Mis started in 1987, when playing Cosette, and then Fantine.
Rachelle Ann Go gives a moving performance as Fantine, while Beatrice Penny-Touré delights as Cosette, rescued from the Thénardiers by Valjean after the death of her mother, Fantine.
Shan Ako’s poignant portrayal of Éponine is truly beautiful.
Jac Yarrow impresses with his strong performance as student revolutionary Marius, while James D. Gish (idealist Enjolras) and ensemble members skillfully deliver the fearsome reality of the barricade scene. The kindly Bishop of Digne is portrayed by Earl Carpenter.
The child performers are wonderful. Portraying Gavroche in alternate performances are Christopher Joseph, Sebastian Sero, Orlando Steiner and William Steiner. Sharing the role of Little Cosette are Samara Coull-Williams, Violet Massingham, Scarlett Sheludko and Alexandra Szewcow.
Cameron Mackintosh writes in the program that his directorial/design teams have combined the ‘dramatic power of a theatre production with the thrill of a spectacular rock concert.’
Les Misérables, the Arena Spectacular may be different to the stage production, but is certainly worth seeing as a special musical theatre experience.
Until May 25 at the Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne.
Bookings: Ticketek.
Cheryl Threadgold