Following my viewing of the 2012 cinematic rendition of “Les Misérables,” my admiration for the musical was reignited (excluding Russell Crowe’s lackluster vocals).
Presently, the musical is back for shows at the esteemed Pantages Theatre until September 10, marking it as one of the most exceptional productions witnessed in recent years. The upgraded interpretation of “Les Mis” blends contemporary visuals with an exceptional ensemble, enhancing this grand and sorrowful musical.
The three-hour odyssey evoked a plethora of emotions from the spectators, inducing tears, laughter, and extensive applause for many remarkable solo and ensemble performances.
The remarkable Nick Cartell essays the role of protagonist Jean Valjean (Prisoner 24601), who violates his parole after enduring a lengthy 19-year prison sentence for stealing a loaf of bread. Preston Truman Boyd impressively embodies the character of Police Inspector Javert, who is determined to pursue Valjean relentlessly. Their on-stage interactions stand out as some of the most powerful moments in this sung-through musical. Cartell delivers an awe-inspiring rendition of “Bring Him Home,” while Boyd’s emotional portrayal in “Stars” and his poignant exit captivate the audience.
Haley Dortch delivers a stellar performance as Fantine, who is wrongfully dismissed and driven into a life of prostitution before being rescued by Valjean, who also adopts her daughter Collette as an act of redemption. Dortch’s rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” moved many to tears, as did Vivian Atencio’s rendition of “On My Own” as Eponine.
While “Les Mis” is laden with tragedy, it also explores the revolution in France during 1815, the love story between Marius (Gregory Lee Rodriguez) and Collette (Addie Morales), and provides comic relief through the characters of the Thenardiers, portrayed comically by Matt Crowle and Christina Rose Hall, who are the unfortunate parents of Eponine and guardians of young Collette.
Matt Kinsley’s exquisite set design, inspired by Victor Hugo’s paintings, incorporates animated projections, paired with Paule Constable’s graceful light design, Claude-Michel Schönberg’s music, Herbert Kretzmer’s lyrics, and Cameron Mackintosh’s overall production, rendering this rendition of “Les Misérables” a spectacle not to be missed.
Catch the show at The Pantages, located at 6233 Hollywood Boulevard, until September 10, with showings on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 7:30 pm, Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 2 pm and 8 pm, and Sundays at 1 pm and 6:30 pm. Secure your tickets at www.broadwayla.org. Furthermore, the production will be staged at the Segerstrom Center in Costa Mesa from September 19 to October 1, tickets available at www.scfta.org.
