One of the world’s most iconic and longest-running musicals, Les Misérables, is set to bring Mandurah Performing Arts Centre roaring to life in September.
Written by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonbergt and directed by Karen Francis of Stray Cats Theatre Company, the play tells the story of the convict Jean Valjean (Paul Hayward), after he is released from a French prison where he was incarcerated for nineteen years because he stole a loaf of bread and for subsequent attempts to escape from prison.
When Valjean arrives at the town of Digne, no one is willing to give him shelter because he is an ex-convict.
In desperation, Valjean knocks on the door of Myriel (Andy Vermie), the kindly bishop of Digne.
Myriel treats Valjean with kindness, and Valjean repays the bishop by stealing his silverware. When the police arrest Valjean, Myriel covers for him, claiming that the silverware was a gift.
The authorities release Valjean and Myriel makes him promise to become an honest man. Eager to fulfill his promise, Valjean masks his identity and enters the town of Montreuil-sur-mer.
Under the assumed name of Madeleine, Valjean invents an ingenious manufacturing process that brings the town prosperity, eventually becoming the town’s mayor.
Les Misérables is set against the backdrop of 19th Century France and the aftermath of the French Revolution.
It is a timeless story of intertwined destinies revealing the power of compassion and the quiet evil of indifference to human suffering. As Valjean’s quest for a new life carries him into Paris and to the barricades of the student revolution, he is hunted by Inspector Javert (Chris Gerish), and the ghosts of his past.
Amid a battle for the soul of Paris, he discovers the true meaning of love and salvation.
Performed in over 40 countries and 22 languages, and with a lush, swelling score that features such famed songs as “I Dreamed a Dream”, “On My Own”, and “Bring Him Home”, Les Mis brings Victor Hugo’s revolutionary novel to life.
Les Misérables starts on Thursday, September 21 at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre and continues Seotember 22 and 23 at 7.30pm, with two matinee performances, Saturday, September 23 and Sunday, September 24 at 2pm.
For more information or ticket purchases go to manpac.com.au or call 9550 3900.
