Les Miserables at the Walnut Street Theater

There's something about seeing a new musical for the first time -- the excitement in the air is palpable, there's this anticipation that it could be the most wonderful thing, could provide the tunes you'll be humming for the next three years. Les Miserables was one of those shows that everyone else knew, but that I had never seen, and I was anxious to see it once I realized it was in WST's season. 

Les Miserables is a different kind of musical than those I normally prefer. I tend to go for the mildly kitchsy, happy-ending musical, replete with clever lyrics and humm-able tunes. I'll suspend the happy ending requirement for Sondheim, but otherwise, that's what I need in a musical. Les Miz was not kitchsy, the ending was bittersweet, the lyrics were tolerable but not fabulously witty. This musical was not what I normally need -- it was a lot more, and I loved it for defying my expectations. I think there's something to be said for watching a performance break your own silly rules and preconceived notions. 

The book, though lengthy, was excellent -- it did justice to Hugo's masterpiece, one of my favorite novels and kept all of what I thought were the most important sections. I would have liked more of the history of the thing, and I can imagine for audience members who hadn't read the book, it might feel slightly disjointed at places. The music had an epic feel to it --I had heard  some of the songs, like "Master of the House", "On My Own", and "I Dreamed a Dream" before. I loved the motif that kept repeating in all of Jean Valjean's songs -- the actor who played Jean Valjean was brilliant and each time I heard the motif I felt differently about it - beautiful!

In general, the cast was fabulous, and really a joy to watch. Usually the Walnut Street Theater does a good job of casting, but they often fall short when casting kids (Peter Pan's cast of kids was disappointing), but Gavroche and Young Cosette were wonderful. As always, Paul Schoeffler thrilled - -he made Man of La Mancha, one of my least favorite musicals ever, fun to watch, and as Javert he really shined. (I'll admit I preferred his Captain Hook, but they're not really comparable performances, and I'll always choose Peter Pan over almost anything. Except maybe Anything Goes. And Babes in Arms.). The Thenardiers were wonderfully brought to life -- both actors were hilarious, and "Master of the House" made me laugh to tears. Marius was so talented (and gorgeous, let's be honest), and his rich tone really helped the second act sparkle. 

The production was HUGE, and I've heard that it's only larger on Broadway (one could assume, of course). It was definitely one of the larger undertakings I've seen at WST -- so many beautiful, intricate set pieces. I really enjoyed the fly that served as the top of the sewer; the lights came up dimly on that scene, and I really felt like I was underground (I had been wondering how they would pull that off). Speaking of underground (well, sort of) -- the pit was in top form on Saturday night! Such a powerful score, and they really pulled it off. The flugelhorn sound was to die for throughout, so yummy!

Les Miserables was clearly not my typical kind of musical, but the intricate production and talented cast really brought it off, and I enjoyed myself thoroughly! I can't wait for my next musical theater adventure.. . next weekend, off to see Gilbert and Sullivan's Patience!