The musical Les Misérables, the longest-running in the world, is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Instead of keeping the celebration in London’s West End, the show has been turned into a global arena tour and has just started in Australia, beginning with a big opening night at the ICC in Sydney.
Producer Sir Cameron Mackintosh was there to host the event himself which was very special. The production is large-scale, featuring both famous performers and new faces. During the encore, former cast members made surprise appearances that thrilled the audience. The set is designed so the orchestra was raised above the stage, letting the powerful music flow through the performance.
Alfie Boe played Jean Valjean and was absolutely incredible — possibly the best musical performance I have ever seen. His singing is just filled with passion. Michael Ball, as Javert, was also excellent. I have long admired Michael Ball, but this was the first time seeing him live, and his singing and acting were both intense and captivating, especially when sharing the stage with Alfie Boe.
Matt Lucas was hilarious and perfectly cast as the slimy Thénardier. His co-star was meant to be Marina Prior as Madame Thénardier, but she lost her voice and was replaced by Helen Walsh, who was fantastic and matched Lucas’s energy perfectly.
Rachelle Ann Go sang “I Dreamed a Dream” beautifully. Jac Yarrow, as Marius, delivered a moving performance, especially alongside Beatrice Penny-Touré, whose voice was angelic as Cosette. James D. Gish impressed everyone as Enjolras with his powerful singing, and Shan Ako’s emotional performance of “On My Own” was a standout of the night. Young actor Sebastian Sero charmed everyone as Gavroche.
At the end of the show, Sir Cameron Mackintosh gave a heartfelt speech, followed by a special encore where original and past cast members from 1987 and 1997 returned to sing “One Day More.” It was an emotional moment that left many in the audience in tears including me.
This special production is more than a celebration of Les Misérables’ long history — it’s a tribute to everyone who’s ever been part of the show, on stage or behind the scenes, over the past 40 years.
It is only playing until May 11th, so be quick to book! Tell the kids and husbands this would make a fantastic Mother’s Day gift tickets are available for this Sunday, Mother’s Day.
Tickets for sale here.