Les Miserables at the Queens Theatre
This opera influenced musical has been open in London since October 1985 and there can be no doubt that it the world’s most popular show, having been seen in 38 countries in 21 different languages.
It is set against the horrors of the French Revolution and tells the story of Jean Valjean who spends his life on the run after breaking parole from prison. He takes on a different name and identity to avoid recapture and eventually becomes Mayor of a small town. His life runs parallel to that of Javert, an obsessed policeman intent on catching Valjean at all cost. The relationship between these two characters is central to the plot and their simultaneous journeys are often poignant and tragic. Valjean has one of the most moving songs, ‘Bring Him Home’. The delivery of this song and the truth of the actor playing the part often results in the biggest ovation of the night.
The stirring, dramatic and beautiful score by Claude-Michel Schonberg includes such memorable songs as ‘On My Own’, ‘One Day More’ and the rousing ‘Do You Hear The People Sing’. Then we have the equally catching and comical relief of ‘Master of the House’.
The Barricade scene has to be one of the best stages in all of theatre land although slightly diminished in the smaller Queen’s Theatre.
Les Mis has stood the test of time in London’s West End and everyone should go and see it. The evocative passion of the music and the soul searching anguish of the lyrics carry you away on a tingling wave of sensory seduction. Alongside the visual importance of John Napier’s revolving stage and the Directorship of Trevor Nunn, it is an exhilarating experience. |
