Go and hear the people sing
by
The strength and emotion generated in the full cast numbers are amongst the highlights of this year’s Warragul Theatre Company production.
“Les Misérables” is filled with iconic music and the cast sounds simply amazing when delivering these epic numbers.
After months of rehearsals, the show hit the stage of the West Gippsland Arts Centre for opening night on Friday to an audience of more than 300 people.
Tickets are now selling fast for the final four shows on Thursday at 7.30pm, Friday at 7.30pm and Saturday at 1.30pm and 7.30pm. With final weekend shows booking out in previous years, book your tickets today to avoid disappointment.
“Les Misérables” has played a significant role in the history of Warragul Theatre Company. First performed in 2000, it returned in 2010 before being selected for the 20th anniversary show for 2022.
David Lamb led the cast superbly as Jean Valjean, bringing his experience, high-quality acting and plenty of emotion to the role. There would have been a few tissues needed for his later scenes.
However, other stand-outs amongst the cast were Michael Barron as Javert and Alexandria Kirkbright as Eponine.
Strong throughout and displaying maturity well beyond his 21 years, Michael did a brilliant job of his complex character. Alexandria, in her first lead role, displayed an incredible voice, poise and stood out every time she took to the stage.
Mandie Lee as Cosette and Jordan Walton as Marius accompanied each other perfectly with their great voices.
Special mention for Warragul resident Anna Nowotny in the role of Fantine. In her first major role for the company, Anna did a wonderful job.
Amongst the drama and emotion, Dorothy McMahon was perfectly cast as Madame Thenardier to offer a touch of frivolity and riotousness. She was well supported by Peter Larsen as Thenardier and the pair was undoubtedly amongst the audience favourites.
Watch out for Kairene McCaffery and Eidhin McCaffery in future after these youngsters showed off some serious talent in their roles of Young Cosette and Gavroche. Kairene’s performance of “Castle on a Cloud” was very nicely done.
The orchestra, as always, was simply flawless and well led by musical director David Williams. The musical talents in this orchestra must be heard to be believed, with many members returning year after year.
Director Rob Robson ensured the musical flowed and has delivered a must-see show for the community.
The audience was also appreciative of the efforts by the set designers, with the barricade drawing a round of applause upon its reveal.
If you are a fan of “Les Misérables” or simply want to see what all the fuss is about, get out and support this local theatre company as they emerge from the hardship of COVID.
Tickets are $55 for general, $48 for concession, and $45 for members, youth and groups.
For bookings or further information, contact the West Gippsland Arts Centre box-office on 5624 2456 or visit wgac.com.au
Following “Les Misérables”, Warragul Theatre Company president Caroline Allen announced the next production will be “Jekyll and Hyde” in May 2023. For those interested in taking part, further information will be released later in the year.