Don’t miss Les Miz

No matter where it comes or in whatever language it is heard, Boublil and Schonberg’s musical Les Miserables (Les Miz) is always an enthralling experience. Of course, I grant that they had quite a tale to start with. Each time I think about it, I never cease to marvel over how Victor Hugo conjured up the novel that is everything a great read should be.

Set in a historical moment in 19th century France, it has tragedy, romance, comedy and powerful social commentary in a neatly rolled-up, one thousand page inspiring package.

That often unwieldy tale was what Boublil and Schonberg took on some 30 years ago and turned into what is certainly one of the best musicals ever created. And each time I watch, I also often think about the ruthless manner they chopped off scenes and characters and at the discernment that went into their choices. They knew when to embellish and when to hold back and in the end, they sewed everything up into the three-hour spectacle that has now been seen by over 70 million people worldwide.

I do not know what the count will come up to but thousands of Filipinos will soon be joining that number because they came to watch Les Miz at The Theatre of the Solaire Resorts and Casino where it has been playing these past weeks. Brought to town by Concertus Manila and presented by Smart Infinity, the show continues today and up to May 1. So you have only up to this weekend to catch it. And you must.

You have to because Les Miz is truly one of those very few must-see musicals. I mean like, life would feel more complete or will be finished to a brighter sheen if you have seen it. And then there is also the presence of Rachelle Ann Go as Fantine in the cast. The local singing champion is not the first Filipino to play what is considered one of the most demanding roles ever written for an actress in a musical. But she is the first one to bring the role home as part of this touring cast. And that is something we can all be proud of.

Fantine’s tragic existence is one of those that intersects and later becomes a major part of the personal redemption of Les Miz’s main character Jean Valjean. Jailed for stealing bread, he escapes and turns himself into a respected businessman and public servant. As a result, he is hounded for years by Inspector Javert as the convict who never finished his sentence. Despite this though, his innate goodness keeps him centered on helping others, most especially Fantine’s daughter Cosette. Fantine turned to prostitution and later died after she was unfairly dismissed from Valjean’s factory.

This is the role that Rachelle Ann moved into a scant two weeks after ending her stint as Gigi in Miss Saigon a year ago. Gigi was a mix of bravado, sarcasm and regret but Fantine is a tragic figure from the first moment she is seen on stage. She gives a hint of a smile at the end but that is all. This character is now what Rachelle Ann inhabits eight times a week. And I cannot help but marvel at the dedication she puts into her work and at how her love for singing and the theater has made her a true actress.

Members of the company sing One Day More

 

She has to be if she is to keep up with the level of excellence that permeates this touring company. While we do not lack for very good local theater productions, it still feels good to once in a while get a show that is every bit like what people get in the West End or Broadway. This is one of those instances. This Les Miserables is musically and technically perfect. And it has a wonderful cast of powerful actors.

Obviously, most popular with the Solaire audience are Simon Gleeson as Valjean, Cameron Blakely and Helen Walsh as Monsieur and Madame Thenardier, Kerry Anne Greenland as Eponine and Chris Durling in the scene stealing role of Enjolras. Now say what you will about how Russell Crowe mangled the song in the movie version, but Stars remains one of my favorite Les Miz songs and it sounded great coming from Earl Carpenter whom everybody loved as the bad guy Javert. His death scene certainly rocked the house.

This is a new production and there have been changes made. I sort of miss that scene of the barricade coming together on stage. That, to me, ranks alongside great theater moments like the chandelier in Phantom of the Opera and the helicopter in Miss Saigon. But no matter, with all those beautiful songs resounding in the theater, I Dreamed A Dream, One Day More, Do You Hear The People Sing, On My Own, I do not think the people watching miss it at all.

Besides, having Rachelle Ann there with her fine voice and sensitive portrayal is more than enough to make up for perceived defects or inadequacies. This girl is one more proof of how the very talented Filipinos should keep on dreaming the Broadway dream. It has a very good chance of coming true.