Les Misérables at Marcus Performing Arts Center

In a world where there are a LOT of shows I haven't seen, Les Misérables was at the top of my bucket list. (Phantom is now firmly holding that top spot alone.) And it was every bit as incredible as I'd hoped. I owned the soundtrack CD at one point, you know, when CDs were still considered top-tier tech, so it's been a minute. But I haven't listened to the music in years. But several songs still immediately struck me. I'll never not be in awe of how these shows can combine such heart-wrenching storylines with songs that give you chills or bring you to tears, or maybe both, with upbeat songs that make up giggle. The rollercoaster of emotions brought on by an amazing musical will literally never get old to me.

Aside from the phenomenal music, performed by astonishingly talented voices, the beauty of the set and costumes was extraordinary. Going from very simple scenes to creating a whole city street with people in windows and on balconies in seconds. From the multisensory battle scenes to the private gated garden, the details were amazing. I don't say this lightly, but I'm ready to go see again already!!

Les Misérables is a famous 1862 novel by Victor Hugo that has been adapted into a long-running musical and a 2012 film, among other versions. The story is set in 19th-century France and follows the ex-convict Jean Valjean as he seeks redemption while being relentlessly pursued by the rigid Inspector Javert. The narrative explores themes of justice, love, sacrifice, and revolution through the lives of various characters, including Fantine, Cosette, and the revolutionaries at the June Rebellion.