The celebrated musical Les Misérables, a tale of love and redemption set amidst the turbulence of early-nineteenth-century France, receives a handsome and expansive treatment in this new production by the Capital Theatre Trust and G&T Productions.

At the heart of the story is Jean Valjean, a man newly released from prison after spending 19 years locked up for stealing food to support his family.

As the years roll on and Valjean become more respectable, he encounters a vivid cast of characters. Among them solo mother Fantine and her daughter Cosette, the gruesome innkeepers Monsieur and Madame Thénardier and a group of students agitating for revolution in 1830s Paris. [More]
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Copyright © in the review belongs to the reviewer

Following the reopening of the St James Theatre after a three-year closure, Wellington celebrates the glittering crown jewel of the city’s theatrical venues with this truly spectacular musical gem.

Les Misérables is arguably one of the world’s most loved and successful theatrical productions, having been translated into over 21 different languages and boasting a global audience of over 130 million people! Here it is brought expertly to the stage by Capital Theatre Trust, G&T Productions, Director Grant Meese, Musical Director: Kate Marshall and a cast and crew of over 100!

This is my first introduction to Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s adaptation of Victor Hugo’s timeless classic, which has been produced in over 40 countries worldwide, holding the title of one of the world’s longest running musicals since its Parisian debut in 1980.

Les Misérables follows Jean Valjean – played to perfection by Hayden Lawrence – who has served nineteen years hard labour: five for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his widowed sister’s children during economic depression, plus 14 for escaping four times and resisting arrest. He takes the audience on a decades-long journey of passion, thwarted love, sacrifice, broken dreams and redemption – posing the question, can crimes be pardoned? This gripping story takes place across several decades in 19th-century France, bringing interpersonal relationship stories to a climax at a barricade of the 1832 anti-monarchist Paris Uprising (aka The June Rebellion).

It is evident that a great deal of hard work, dedication, passion and raw talent has been poured into the production by musicians, designers, directors and theatrical practitioners, all notably at the peak of their respective crafts. With such a high calibre of both performance and production values, one could watch it several times, appreciating anew every element of this breath-taking production.

The orchestra provides a flawless score to heartfelt ballad and joyous choral number alike. This contrast between upbeat, fun, brassy numbers and delicate ballads and duets not only sets a riveting pace for the unfolding story but treats the audience to a full range from the talented 15-piece orchestra led by Musical Director, Kate Marshall.

The main cast shine, showcasing not only their all-round vocal control and range, but performance and acting abilities, bringing both rawness and vulnerability to their roles throughout the performance.

Gemma Hoskins brings a touching and powerful performance as Fantine, with her rendition of ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ stirring an emotional audience response.

Hayden Lawrence’s Jean Valjean is given full rein to showcase his incredible vocal range. As his nemesis, Police Inspector Javert, Chris Crowe delivers powerful ballads and duets, bringing an outstanding and palpable energy to his role.

Maya Handa Naff’s Eponine has a tender rawness of emotion. Nick Lerew and Flora Dryburgh Marius and Cosette with a sensitive and earnest professionalism. Joe Mara expertly leads the barricade ensemble as Enjolras, delivering unforgettable moments as he waves the fiery red flag of the salvation crusade.

As Monsieur and Madame Thenardier, the charisma and performances of Sandy Leadbeater and Tania Parker are a real highlight, their notable chemistry touching pantomimic levels of playfulness that generate an appreciative audience response. Their duet of ‘Master of the House’ will no doubt remain stuck on an earworm loop for several days.

Aided by stunning and intricately detailed attention to costumes, hair and make-up, the ensemble comprised of over 20 performers is a joy to watch. Their absolute commitment to character, perfect staging and rousing choral numbers makes for entertaining and enthralling scenes.

A real highlight is the set and the way it serves the powerful performances and riveting storyline. With its high ceilings and wide stage, the St James Theatre lends itself perfectly, with the production featuring a dynamic revolving stage that makes for absolutely seamless, blink-and-you-miss-it set changes and scene transitions. The design is overall one of the most spectacular elements with several jaw-dropping moments throughout both acts. One can only dream of a behind-the-scenes tour of the full set and expansive array of props!

The beautiful mise en scène is further enhanced by stunning lighting. From simple candlelight to full blown washes in the colours of the French flag, the lighting is absolutely on-point and adds to the immersive nature of the production. With such attention to detail, professionalism, and skill across all elements of Les Misérables, one would be forgiven in forgetting they’re in downtown Wellington, not at a West End or Broadway show, let alone 19th century France.

We are truly lucky to have this world-class piece of theatre right on our doorstep. Whether you are a diehard fan or newcomer like me, Les Miserables is a must! This highly-polished and glorious production, filled with surprises, delight and pure talent is not to be missed!

Join the salvation crusade.
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• Copyright © belongs to the reviewer

Copyright © in the review belongs to the reviewer