I have seen the show on stage about 5 times, and can pretty much sing the entire soundtrack - it is great for a long (solo) drive! It is greater than any other musical I have ever seen.
Based on the stage show (I know it better than the film, and there are differences), my top 10 reasons for loving Les Miserables, are:
- Eponine – gutsy, underdog, unrequited love – many women would be able to identify with her far better than with girly, fragile Cosette
- Enjolras – student leader, charismatic, big commanding presence, often gorgeous - my favourite Enjolras was the first one I saw, Anthony Warlow as a young blond man, a long time ago
- Jean Valjean – always captivating, his story of struggle, hardship, and final redemption is beautiful and touching
- Gavroche – a cute, cheeky, fearless little street urchin
- Javert - so many issues! My favourite Javert was played by Philip Quast
- The Thenardiers – comic relief in the midst of a lot of sadness
- Male chorus – I love a group of men with amazing, strong singing voices
- Construction of the barricade - clever, clever stage design
- The Finale - spectacular, emotional and wonderful
- The music, especially:
- Who Am I? - Valjean
- The Confrontation - Valjean & Javert
- Red & Black - Enjolras & the students
- Do You Hear The People Sing? - Enjolras, the male & female chorus
- One Day More - the whole company
- On My Own - Eponine
- Bring Him Home - Valjean
Seriously recommended! Please see the stage show when you get the chance, and/or the movie, if you have about 3 hours to spare. Take tissues.
Coming soon - highlights of my year in 2012.
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