Les Misérables to storm the barricades in Adelaide in all new production

One of the world’s most iconic musicals, the multi-award winning Les Misérables, returns to Adelaide in an all-new production for The G&S Society at Adelaide’s Arts Theatre in September.

The world’s longest running musical, “Les Mis” has been seen by more than 70 million people in 44 countries and in 22 languages around the globe since its 1985 premiere in London’s West End, where it still plays to packed houses.

Now in this all-new production by Adelaide’s G&S Society, the musical phenomenon will be brought to thrilling new life with a stellar local cast, and exciting multimedia projections promising a fully immersive theatrical experience like no other.

Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France and the aftermath of the French revolution, Les Misérables tells the story of Jean Valjean, an ex convict who spends a lifetime seeking redemption while on the run from ruthless policeman Javert.

As his quest for a new life brings him to Paris and the barricades of the Student Rebellion, Valjean adopts the young Cosette, orphaned daughter of the dying Fantine, and discovers the true meaning of love and salvation amidst the rubble of the revolution.

With a lush, swelling score that features such famed songs as “I Dreamed a Dream”, “On My Own” and “Bring Him Home”, Les Misérables brings Victor Hugo’s revolutionary story of love, courage and redemption blazingly to life.

State Opera of South Australia singers Mark Oates and Andrew Crispe head up the superb local cast as Jean Valjean and Javert, with Emma Haddy as Cosette and Casmira Hambledon as Fantine.

The production also stars Jennifer Trijo as Eponine, Josh Angeles as Marius, Kent Green and Vanessa Lee Shirley as the Thénardiers, and Dave MacGillvray as Enjolras with the child roles of Gavroche, Young Cosette and Eponine being shared by talented young actors Oscar Bridges, Daniel Milton, Mary Blacker, Alicia Hammond andAriel Higgs.

The production will also feature cutting edge audio-visual technology from award-winning video designer Craig Williams of Mosaic AV (Cloudstreet) to light up the stage with custom-made multimedia video projections, transforming scenes instantly from the 18th century French countryside, to the smoke and fire of the barricades and the gritty slums of Paris.

Directors Linda Williams and David Sinclair say it’s no surprise audiences continue to be enchanted by “Les Mis”.

“Les Misérables is one of the most popular musicals in the world for a reason: it’s got high drama, sweeping romance and emotional turmoil, all set to some of the most epic and memorable music ever written,” he said.

“Now with the recent Hugh Jackman and Russell Crowe movie there’s a whole new generation of fans who have discovered the beauty of Les Mis, and its legacy continues to endure. This particular stage production is quite different from the film, with some differences to songs and the way it is constructed. So if you loved the movie, you will absolutely love this – and if you hated the movie, you’ll love it too!”

Epic, grand and uplifting, and featuring some of musical theatre’s best loved songs, Les Misérables is a powerful affirmation of the power of the human spirit to survive against adversity, a masterpiece not to be missed.

LES MISERABLES runs in a limited season of just 10 performances at The Arts Theatre, 53 Angas St Adelaide, from September 28 to October 7.

Praise for the G&S Society’s last show, Thoroughly Modern Millie:

“The whole show is a delight, great ensemble singing and dancing, gorgeous frocks, and charm to excess. The cat’s pyjamas and his nightcap too!” – The Advertiser

“A fast-paced, funny, and thoroughly engaging production … that sets a new standard,” – Broadway World

“A heavenly production!” – GlamAdelaide

“Thoroughly polished. A joyous show, delivered in style,” – The Clothesline

“Thoroughly fabulous!” – The Upside News