Meet some of the performers...

Luke Smith Character: Marius What brought you to theatre and performance? for music. What makes Les Mis such a long-running success? songs are memorable. Why is a live performance so special? – Because it’s people sharing a mutual interest in music. Favourite song in the show? – ‘Empty Chairs at Empty Tables’. What meaning do you take from the show? – It’s what you do with tragedy that defines who you are. A small act of kindness can mean so much. Why should people come to see Les Mis? – Because Les Mis is a phenomenal production. It has many powerful moments and unforgettable characters.

Christine Bulger Character: Fantine What brought you to theatre and performance? – I really enjoy interpreting a character and telling a story through song, it’s so emotive. What makes Les Mis such a long-running success? – The universality of the story and the intensity of the music. Why is a live performance so special? – Because live performance is 100 percent honest – it has to be – there are no second takes, it’s authentic. Favourite song in the show? – All of them! But if I had to choose ‘The People’s Song’, ‘One day more’ and ‘Stars’. What meaning do you take from the show? – Metanoia and redemption – even in the darkest situation people can choose to do good. Why should people come to see Les Mis? – It’s a classic, told with strength and courage by Ararat Musical Comedy Society.

Melissa Sanders Character: Cosette What brought you to theatre and performance? – I grew up around theatre and performance and I’ve enjoyed it for as long as I can remember. What makes Les Mis such a long-running success? – The fantastic music and a cast of interesting and varied characters as well as a well-developed story of tragedy, love and hope. Why is a live performance so special? – Live performances are true demonstrations of pure talent and hard work from onstage and off stage. It’s in the moment and it’s inclusive. Favourite song in the show?

What meaning do you take from the show?– You just have to keep looking forward to the next moment, you have to realise that it will get better. Why should people come to see Les Mis?– It’s good, please come and see it.