Les Misérables

Les Misérables is back, and I can’t believe I am saying this but it’s better than ever. Considered one of the greatest musicals it is based on a book by Victor Hugo, music by Claude-Michel Schonberg and lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer. 

For anyone who has never seen this show, my boyfriend being one of the few, this is a show “unlike any that he has ever seen.” He immediately became a fan. 

It is the story of Jean Valjean also known as prisoner 24601 who was arrested for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his starving nephew. And so, begins the journey of his life. This show has it all, revolution, redemption, tragedy and musical numbers that will leave you feeling a roller coaster of emotions. 

Nick Cartell masterfully handles the role of Valjean. His falsetto “Bring Him Home” is sung to perfection, Haley Dortch as Fantine sang “I Dreamed a Dream” with such power and emotion. Eponine’s version of “On My Own” deserved the lengthy ovation, Christine Heesun Hwang had an intensity I have not seen before. Preston Thurman Boyd is powerful as Javert chasing after Valjean only to realize he has a heart and guilt eventually consumes him. We really feel for him as he totally self-destructs. 

Some of the lighter moments come as Gavarche (the adorable and talented Gabriel Lafazan) salutes Javert with his middle finger. And Chicago’s own Matt Crowle and Christina Rose Hall steal the show as the Thenardier’s. You just can’t get enough of their wit and playfulness. They really were “Masters of the House.” The tenderness of Marius (Gregory Lee Rodriguez) singing “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables” was one of the moments you realize why this show is the success it is. It is filled with some of the most haunting beautiful musical numbers as well as a story that tugs at your heartstrings. 

I have seen this show 4 times now and this is one of the best productions. And one not to be missed.  Be sure to bring a box of Kleenex (which may not even be enough), sit back for three hours and enjoy this beautiful, perfectly cast and staged Les Mis.

This production is in a class by itself. The time is now, the day is here to see this epic masterpiece in all its glory. 

Reviewed by Gayle Kirshenbaum

Highly Recommended

When: Through March 5

Where: Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St.

Running time: 3 hours with a 15-minute intermission

Tickets: $55-$136 at 800-775-2000 and http://www.broadwayinchicago.com

For information about this and other shows go to http://www.theatreinchicago.com