Les Misérables hits the stage this Friday night
Warragul Theatre Company's (WTC) production of Les Misérables is set to hit the stage at West Gippsland Arts Centre this week.
Brought to the stage by an award-winning production team, the classic musical follows the story of French peasant, Jean Valjean in 19th-century France after he is released from prison.
The director of this epic musical is Rob Robson, director of WTC's award-winning production of 'A Streetcar Named Desire' and former manager of the West Gippsland Arts Centre.
This is the third time WTC has done Les Miserables, which is undoubtedly an audience favourite. Complete with impressive vocals and a dramatic, emotional storyline there is no doubt it will take Warragul by storm.
The show stars David Lamb as Jean Valjean, Anna Nowotny as Fantine, Michael Barron as Javert, Alex Kirkbright as Eponine,
Jordan Walton as Marius, and Mandie Lee as Cosette.
Mr Robson describes the show as "the revolutionary musical that changed the face of musicals for all time."
"It's dramatic, it's passionate, it's emotional and most of all, you go home and you just can't stop singing the songs, they go round and round in your head," he said.
The incredibly technical show has been a feat for all involved, especially with the added pressures of the pandemic. Mr Robson said since auditions late last year there have been a few disruptions.
"It has been a very, very difficult time to rehearse a show," he explained.
"We have had lots and lots of people who, at various times, have been unable to come to rehearsal either because they are in isolation or because they are sick."
However, the efforts of the production team and cast appear to have far outweighed the challenges they faced.
Mr Robson commended the show's musical director David Williams on his impressive efforts, making sure the musical element of the show was one of the first things under the team's belt.
"The production team has just been enormous, they've worked really really hard," Mr Robson said.
"We see the people on stage and we applaud them, but it is really important to recognise that behind them there is an equally large group of people who are making it all happen."
Many familiar names in local theatre are involved in Les Misérables behind the scenes including Hayley Abery and Leane Gooding (production managers), Grace Attard (choreographer) Amy Robson (assistant to the director and properties), Britt Coombs (stage manager), Kate Dougan and Elyse Clyde (costume coordinators), Kylie Sinclair (hair and makeup), Malcolm McCaffery and Yolette Stewart (rehearsal pianists), Keegan Just (lead set building) and Greg Ginger (sound).
In the lead-up to the show, the production team and cast have been caught up in a whirlwind of preparations, and with a show as technical as Les Misérables, getting everything set up and ready to go is a feat in itself.
"I always say there are three characters in Les Mis, there is the cast, there's the set, and then there is just the overall logistics," Mr Robson said.
"What has been really terrific is the Gippsland theatre community. So, between WTC, Latrobe Theatre Company, Wonthaggi Theatre Company, we've been able to source most of the costumes from our own recourses, which is great."
With ticket sales already going strong, people are encouraged to grab a seat while they last.
Opening night will be Friday, May 20 at 7.30pm. Shows will follow on Saturday, May 21 at 1.30pm and 7.30pm; Sunday, May 22 at 1.30pm; Thursday, May 26 at 7.30pm; Friday, May 27 at 7.30pm; and Saturday, May 28 at 1.30pm and 7.30pm.
Tickets are $55 for general, $48 for concession, $45 for members, youth and groups, with Saturday shows already selling fast.
For bookings or further information, contact the West Gippsland Arts Centre box office on 5624 2456 or visit wgac.com.au