Les Misérables - Broadway Tour at the Orpheum

Photo: Matthew Murphy

I have seen Les Misérables in the original production at least four times. The first was in London with the original production, then a few times on tour. Last night I saw the new production on tour for the second time. You can read my review from 2022 here. I re-read my review and found it interesting that there is one moment that still struck me after these years. I was also surprised by how often I got emotional with this specific production, playing at the Orpheum Theatre until Dec 1. 

This production is big yet intimate, using set pieces as well as projections, and some amazing lighting cues. It draws you into the intimate story of Jean Valjean (played by Nick Cartell, again), his struggles in life, the changes he makes to be a better person and how his actions radiate out through his life. Starting with his getting caught stealing bread to save his sisters son, he finds himself in trouble with the law. Yet his initial action is to help another. After years as a prisoner he is given parole, and he trys to find work but is still treated as a criminal. He is taken in by a man of the church, and in the middle of the night Jean Valjean steals from him - and is caught. However, the priest shows him mercy, treats him like the human in need that he is, and Valjean's life is changed. One small act can change a person's life for good. That is reiterated throughout the rest of the show. 

Photo: Matthew Murphy

This production is really wonderful and truly moving. Especially in the times we are in, it is a great reminder of the power of a small act of kindness. As stated in my previous review, and above, this production is a joy to watch. You do not want to miss the start (which covers the story above), so please make sure you give yourself time to park, get through security, hit the restrooms, etc. There is late seating, but you will miss the whole opening which explains who Jean Valjean is.

The performances were all strong, and it felt like perfect casting. The whole ensemble were strong, powerful vocalists and performers. You could tell that each character had a full backstory, even if you were only seeing them onstage for a couple minutes during that specific scene. At times I wondered if the role of Jean Valjean was too low for Nick Cartell as he does not always stick to the melodic line you may know from the cast recordings. That being written, all of this was forgotten by the time he finished his incredible "Bring Him Home." Marius (Jake David Smith) and Cosette (Delaney Guyer) both had wonderful light voices that fit together so well, their duets were ethereal and powerful. Javert (Nick Rehberger) makes his character arc feel so natural, and so moving with a wonderful voice. Same with Fantine (Lindsay Heather Pearce), and Eponine (Mya Rena Hunter). Though their time on stage is limited compared to some of the other characters, they were both a joy to watch, and their voices were so powerful and moving.

Photo: Matthew Murphy

In prep for writing this I did reread my last review of it. I find it interesting that I was struck again by the same moment in the show. The character of Grantaire (Kyle Adams) is seen through out as being a bit of a drunk, and not really invested in the student rebellion that is taking place. However he shows a different side to him during the song "Drink with me." He sings his part about maybe this fight being useless, and realizing that his and the student's lives may have no meaning. He is chided by others, and clearly he is upset at his feeling hopeless about the fight at the barricade. He goes to the side of the stage, angry, depressed, and who goes to comfort him? Gavroche. This small interaction that many may miss, shows a deep care that Grantaire has for Gavroche, as well as showing us that Gavroche has been forced to grow-up faster that he should have...like most children of the street. This interaction also brings a whole new depth of emotion to the next fight scene at the barricade. This production is filled with small gorgeous moments like this, so no matter how many times you may have seen the film, or seen a production of this show - please go see this touring production. It is fantastic.