Considered one of the greatest novels of the 19th century and by many one of the greatest musicals of all time (myself included), Les Misérables has quite a reputation. At around three hours in length it is a formidable production from both a performer and an audience member. The Manly Musical Society decided that they would take it head on and produce it for their tenth anniversary and it is a credit to the whole production that they have produced a quality production that is well executed and very entertaining.
The initial moments had some issues with sound balance but this soon resolved. The set was hired from CLOC Musical Theatre Company in Melbourne with Anthony Halpin adding some pieces. It was impressive. Obviously there is a huge difference between the main stage production’s budget and a musical society’s but it is a visually interesting set that carries the production easily. The pivotal moment for this production from a set perspective would be the barricade and it held up to our expectations, if not to the French Army. James Wallis’s lighting was suitably dramatic. Overall Elle Cantor‘s Costumes were fantastic. It’s a pity about the wigs though, they tended to distract rather than contribute to the overall production.
Vocally the cast and ensemble were terrific. From a performance perspective most of the cast did very well with some performances exceptional. There were a few performances that fell a little short, either resorting to over indicating or slight discomfort in the role but the general quality of acting and performance was high.
Marcus James Hurley as Jean Valjean was arresting. He held a strong stage presence and, despite some unfortunate wigs, held a dignified and powerful control overall. His rendition of ‘Bring Him Home’ was emotional, physically still and vocally perfect. My companion and I (both big fans) sighed with relief and satisfaction after the final note. Matching Valjean’s strength was in equally outstanding Joshua Rogers as Javert. A couple of tiny moments where uncertainty eroded some of Javert’s power but they were fleeting and will settle in as he gains confidence in the role. Their confrontation scene was captivating.
Keira Connelly was strong as Fantine. Another unfortunate wig that should have been left in the dressing room did not undermine her emotion and strength. ‘I Dreamed A Dream’ was beautiful.
Liz Cornwall‘s beautiful voice gave a lovely weight to Éponine and ‘On My Own’ was impressive. Garth Saville and Sally Redman did their best to steal the show with the wonderfully evil Thenardier’s and were immensely entertaining. Reece Lyndon was suitably charismatic and strong in the role of Enjolras. Sam Hamilton seemed a little uncomfortable on opening night but will grow in confidence over the run, vocally he was confident with a lovely voice. Isabelle Kohout gave a lovely performance in the role of Cosette. With vocal confidence belying their years, Harrison James gave a wonderful performance as Gavroche – ‘Little People’ was a knockout. Amelie Rose was a gorgeous Young Cosette – her ‘Castle on a Cloud’ was touching and Emily May did well with Young Cosette.
Minor cast members were suitably energetic and rounded out the strong evening of performances. There were moments of overacting but nothing to detract from the whole production. The ensemble and cast were a powerful vocal ensemble. The group numbers ‘At the End Of The Day’, ‘Master Of The House’, ‘One Day More’, and ‘Do You Hear The people Sing’ reverberated around the theatre and gave exactly the right power and gravitas to round out the show. Musical Director, Anthony Cutrupi and Assistant Musical Director, James McAtamney have produced a powerful sound.
Directing a cast this size is a huge job and overall Rodney Herbert has done well. there were performances that needed to be reigned in and some staging that felt neglected with some entrances and exits for musical moments feeling a little haphazard rather than building to a crescendo but it all holds together extremely well and the result is a dynamic and stirring production.
Lynden Jones, Theatre Now Sydney
Les Misérables
Music by Claude-Michel Schönberg
Original French-language lyrics by Alain Boublil and Jean-Marc Natel.
English-language libretto was written by Herbert Kretzmer.
18 – 27 Apr 2019
Fri 19 Apr – 8:00 pm
Sat 20 Apr – 1:00 pm
Sat 20 Apr – 8:00 pm
Sun 21 Apr – 1:00 pm
Sun 21 Apr – 7:30 pm
Tue 23 Apr – 7:30 pm
Wed 24 Apr – 7:30 pm
Thu 25 Apr – 7:30 pm
Fri 26 Apr – 7:30 pm
Sat 27 Apr – 1:00 pm
Sat 27 Apr – 7:30 pm
Venue: Glen Street Theatre
Theatre Company: Manly Musical Society
Duration: 3 hrs, incl interval
Manly Musical Society presents Les Misérables, the world’s longest running musical. It is a true modern classic based on Victor Hugo’s novel and featuring one of the most memorable scores of all time. With countless awards to its name, Les Misérables is as groundbreaking today as it was when it first premiered in London in 1985.
In nineteenth century France, Jean Valjean is released from 19 years of unjust imprisonment, but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment. He breaks his parole in hopes of starting a new life, initiating a lifelong struggle for redemption as he is relentlessly pursued by police inspector Javert, who refuses to believe that Valjean can change his ways. Finally, during the Paris student uprising of 1832, Javert must confront his ideals after Valjean spares his life and saves that of the student revolutionary who has captured the heart of Valjean’s adopted daughter. His world view shattered, Javert commits suicide, and Valjean finally attains the peace that he has sought for so long.
Ticket Prices
Adult $54.00
Concession $49.00
Child (12 yrs & under) $45.00
Groups (10 or more people) $45.00
