The Theatre Royal in Brighton is currently hosting Les Misérables “Let the People Sing”, the first amateur production of Boublil & Schönberg’s legendary musical, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary. My daughter and I went to the opening night to watch the production by Brighton Theatre Group, Brighton & Hove Operatic Society, The Rattonians and Worthing Musical Theatre Company.
I have seen this musical around 10 times before in both Spanish and English and this “amateur” performance was no less that any of the professional productions that I have seen. I was left thinking: “What does it mean to be an amateur?” The show broke my expectations. The production is filled with passion and I was captivated throughout. We were taken on a journey that was a feast for the senses, with an incredible cast, musicians, set and costumes.
I was blown away by the whole cast, but James Harrington, playing, Jean Valjean, was particularly strong – singing with full intention and musical sensibility. There were also standout performances from Mitzi Tullet as Eponine, Max Jenkins as Marius, Wayne Roberts as Javert, Chris Brown as Enjolras., Carl Lovejoy as Thénardier and Lucia Romero as Madame Thénardier.
The whole ensemble created a sense of pure magic. It is rare to find a performance in which all of the cast is strong but this really was the case. I feel everyone performed with nuance and sensitivity.
Les Misérables is a musical that has been performed so many times and at the heart, it is a piece of art that always comes with a solid base of Victor Hugo existentialism. This production brings this to life with passion and gumption.
Also at the heart, is a timeless and powerful message that goes beyond generations. The story is about power, as well as love and the resilience of the human spirit.
Despite seeing this beautiful musical so many times, I was moved once more and reflecting with everything going on in the world, how everyone deserves beauty and hope in their life. I was also left with sadness about inequalities that continue throughout history to now. The lyrics feel so poignant, we need “to fight for the right to be free.”
The musical ended with a rousing finale that highlighted the fire of the human spirit. My hope is that you go along to watch this production and experience powerful reflections like me. Do you hear the people sing? Yes, we do! And don’t forgot your tissues, you’ll need them!
Les Misérables “Let the People Sing” continues at the Theatre Royal Brighton until Saturday, August 23.
Tickets: ATG Tickets
Address: New Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1SD
