
(Don’t worry, there’s a Cosette one too. Equal opportunities and all.)
Review submitted by dramamuch
I saw the production in Chicago, oh my god, it was AMAZING. It was my first time seeing Les Mis on stage, and it was brilliant. It really was. I was very impressed by all the actors, especially Enjolras and Marius. The sets were GORGEOUS. I work on stage crew at my high school, so knowing how sets get put together, I was absolutely blown away by them. Definitely the best show I have ever seen, and I feel it will be one of the best shows I will ever see. If you get a chance to see this show, GO. You will not regret it.
Review submitted by xoxosoprano.
I actually saw the 25th Anniversary production twice because my mother and I loved it so much that we went a second time. I was initially indignant when I heard that they were going to use a new set (not the rotating stage like before) however, I LOVED this set even though it was different. I loved the way they staged “One Day More” and I the scene in the sewers of the second act was also quite enjoyable to watch. I did feel however that they overdid Javert’s suicide a bit, but aside from that I really loved the staging.
Also, in terms of the changes in the score, I definitely noticed them, but I was fine with them. And trust me, I have been listening to this music for nearly 10 years now (I’m 16).
In terms of the cast here are my comments:
AMAZING: Jean Valjean, Fantine, Marius, Enjolras, Grantaire, Thenardier, young Cosette, Gavroche
So-So: Javert, Madame Thenardier
Not so good: Eponine, Cosette
I was really disappointed with Cosette’s voice, she was really pretty but her voice left much to be desired, and some of her high notes were just… Well, I’ve seen better. I also did not really like Eponine’s performance as her interpretation of the character was very angry, and (with they exception of On My Own) I did not really like her voice. Javert was okay, but he wasn’t amazing as he should be, and Stars just wasn’t quite at its normal caliber. I really LOVED Jean Valjean. I loved his new interpretation of the character nearly everything about his performance (that was a huge factor into my seeing it twice). I also really loved Fantine, Marius, and Enjorlas which is good because they are all integral characters. And to my surprise I also really enjoyed the Thenardiers. I normally don’t really like them, but in this production they were quite funny and it provided a great comic relief.
Okay, so I know that this review was probably a lot longer then what you were looking for, but overall I would highly suggest this production, and I’m so sad that it’s ending its tour soon. :(
You know, Les Miserables is a very awesome show. There is something great about it. What? The songs maybe? The story? The characters? I can’t help it I LOVE LES MISERABLES so much!!!
—- Submitted by allysanicole189

The truck in St. Louis, March 2001.

Shanghai premiere (3rd national tour cast)