Earlier this week, I saw the musical version of Victor Hugo's epic 1862 novel "Les Miserables" for the very first time, as the national touring company is making a brief run at Place des Arts in Montreal until February 11.
From the first pounding notes of the musical score that signals the moment the curtain goes up on a group of prisoners rowing in the underbelly of a French naval vessel in the early 19th century, to the highly-charged emotional finale, I can readily see why "Les Miz" has been nothing short of a thundering triumph on Broadway and London's West End for over 30 years, and has played around the world to the same enthusiastic reactions.
The production, which is a breath taking tale of the triumph of the human spirit and personal redemption in the face of adversity and tragedy -- and is all embodied in the main character of Jean Valjean -- is also a vivid portrayal of the harsh life among the wretched of post-Napoleonic France, as it is about to erupt in a populist uprising against the French establishment and its military. And what I liked about it is how this story is told in a very operatic manner, complete with powerful music, authentic costumes, and striking scenery that not only immerses you into this turbulent period of French history, but also makes you think you are experiencing it within the majestic confines of New York's Metropolitan Opera House.
As well, the cast of "Les Miz" is first rate all around, including Nick Cartell who anchors the show so admirably as Jean Valjean; Melissa Mitchell as the tragic figure Fantine; Monte J. Howell and Sarah Cetrulo, who excellently provides the comic relief as the innkeeper and his wife; Danielle J. Summons as the passionate rebel Eponine; and of course, Josh Davis, who plays the policeman Javert -- who is Jean Valjean's nemesis -- to such menacing perfection.
And of course, you can't forget the show stopping songs such as "I Dreamed A Dream", "On My Own", "Master of the House"and "Stars", which were greeted with thunderous ovations from the audience.
"Les Miserables" is a thundering triumph, not to mention a vivid example of how a musical production is not only an epic visually and musically, but also how it can tell a sweeping, life-affirming story in the process. It is -- and will always be -- a definite stage must-see.
To get your tickets for the remaining performances of the show's Montreal run, go to www.evenko.ca
or www.placedesarts.com.
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