Masterful Performances Elevate Les Misérables to New Heights in Calgary
The musical Les Misérables stands as one of the most enduring theatrical masterpieces of our time, captivating audiences worldwide for more than four decades with its powerful storytelling and unforgettable music. Now, a new touring production at Calgary's Jubilee Auditorium demonstrates why this classic continues to resonate so profoundly with theatergoers of all generations.
A Timeless Musical Masterpiece
Based on Victor Hugo's immortal novel, Les Misérables features an English score by Claude-Michel Schonberg and Herbert Kretzmer that has become legendary in musical theater history. The music and lyrics possess a rare ability to touch hearts, souls, and minds simultaneously, transforming Hugo's epic story into a feast for both the eyes and ears. Having seen numerous productions over the years, including an early workshop at London's Royal Shakespeare Company in 1984, this reviewer can attest that the emotional power of Les Misérables never diminishes, with each viewing feeling as fresh and impactful as the first.
Stellar Cast Delivers Extraordinary Performances
The current production playing at the Jubilee Auditorium until Sunday showcases an exceptionally talented ensemble of performers, designers, and directors. Nick Cartell brings remarkable depth to the role of Jean Valjean, the man imprisoned for stealing bread to feed his sister's child. While Cartell may appear somewhat young for the part, his vocal prowess quickly dispels any doubts. His rendition of Who Am I? resonates with both power and anguish, while his performance of Valjean's signature song Bring Him Home in the second act soars with emotional intensity. By the production's conclusion, as Valjean awaits his final journey, audiences witness the full emotional range Cartell brings to this complex character, establishing him as both a formidable singer and actor.
Compelling Antagonists and Supporting Cast
As Valjean's relentless adversary Javert, Hayden Tee creates a formidable presence on stage. Tee embodies the single-minded, self-righteous nature of this self-appointed avenging angel with such conviction that he becomes the perfect foil to Cartell's Valjean. His death scene, featuring the powerful Soliloquy, proves particularly riveting as Javert confronts his own damnation. Lindsay Heather Pearce delivers a heartbreaking performance as Fantine, whose tragic story unfolds through devastating blows. Her rendition of I Dreamed a Dream remains hauntingly beautiful, capturing the character's shattered hopes with poignant clarity.
Strategic Comic Relief Enhances Production
The production demonstrates particular genius in its handling of the Thénardiers, the unscrupulous innkeepers initially entrusted with Fantine's daughter Cosette. Victoria Huston-Elem and Matt Crowle approach these despicable characters with just enough humor to make their villainy bearable for audiences. Their comic timing provides necessary relief from the story's heavier themes, much as Hugo tempered his novel's darkness with moments of levity. Without this careful balance, the production might prove overwhelming, but the current interpretation maintains the perfect equilibrium between drama and comedy.
This touring production from Broadway Across Canada represents one of the finest interpretations of Les Misérables to grace Calgary stages in recent memory. From the principal cast to the ensemble, designers, and directors, every element combines to create a theatrical experience that honors the musical's legacy while bringing fresh energy to its timeless story of redemption, justice, and human resilience.
