It seems redundant to take you through the story of Les Miserables. The musical is one of the longest running in history with a cult-like following. The sustaining power of the show is phenomenal when you consider the lack-luster reviews the show received when it first opened. Considering the success of the recent movie version of Les Miserables, it takes confidence to produce a stage version of the same musical while the movie is still showing. Forever After Productions is fortunate to have a cast and production company capable of rising to the challenge. It should also be noted for this production of Les Miserables, the Village Theater in Canton was nearly sold-out and the show received a standing ovation from a very attentive and appreciative audience.
In my exposure to Forever After Productions, they continue to exceed expectations when it comes to set design and special effects. This production of Les Miserables maintains the high standards an audience has come to expect. The barricade scene was particularly effective as was Javert’s suicide. The judicious use of projections to depict the sewers and street scenes added great dimension to the overall production. The costuming was appropriate and well executed.
While the entire cast should be commended for a solid performance, there were some featured performers worthy of mention. Matt Wallace portrays Jean Valjean and delivers an outstanding performance. Gavroche, played by John Szczotka is another very likeable character with wonderful stage presence. Jeffrey Selewski and Rachel Curtis give a slightly reserved but enjoyable performance as the Thenardiers.
Les Miserables is not a typical Broadway musical – every line is sung. The show is difficult even for professional performers. When you consider the skill level required to execute this show – these young actors will inspire and delight you with their tremendous talent. From an adult perspective, the actors lack of “life’s experiences” brings a level of innocence to the characters they portray. The passion to fight for what you truly believe, the fortitude and willingness to keep your promises under horrific circumstances and losing nearly everyone you know in what seems an instant represents an adult’s life journey. I can only hope these young people will never experience this kind of pain. On the other hand, there were times during the performance, I longed for the emotion and passion Les Miserables should inspire. Great directors find a way to bring these qualities out in their actors.
Les Miserables (School Edition) by Forever After Productions is a wonderful show and worth much more than $15 per ticket. Find time to gather your family, call some friends and see this show. You will love it!
Les Miserables runs through February 10, 2013 at the Village Theater in Canton, Michigan. You can purchase tickets online at http://foreverafterproductions.com/tickets/
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