BWW Reviews: Gallery Players' LES MISERABLES - Come Hear the People Sing

Arguably the greatest musical of our time, LES MISERABLES evokes such a powerful array of raw emotion with its theme of love, strength, commitment, and redemption - all anchored by a gut-wrenching score that culminates into stage musical masterpiece.

Set in early 19th-century France, it is the story of Jean Valjean and his quest for redemption after serving nineteen years in jail for stealing a loaf of bread to save his sister's starving child. Valjean decides to break his parole and start his life anew while relentless police inspector, Javert, makes it his life mission to track him down. Valjean then finds himself caught up in the Revolutionary period in France.

Under the vigorous direction of David Bahgat, this modern musical classic is incredibly acted and rapturously sung. Bahgat assembles 35 of the most talented actors in Columbus and drives them to soaring heights by his intensely focused vision.

Leading the troupe is Bill Hafner as Jean Valjean, who stepped in at the last minute to fill the shoes of the original actor, who fell ill. Hafner strongly encompasses the depth and breadth of this monumental role, baring his entire soul through his soaring, shivering vocals and powerful emotional pleas.

As Javert, Scott Green successfully portrays the rigid bureaucrat, tormented between a relentless vengeance and his own imprisoned world. His commitment to the role and lyrical baritone offer a chilling performance, especially in the song "Stars."

Melissa Muguruza plays Fantine with heartfelt beauty, and Amy Rittberger's impressive soprano soars with lovely young innocence as her daughter, Cosette. Although seemingly ill on opening night, Madeline Bolzenius pulls off the proper angst and tormented isolation as Eponine. The inconsistencies in her voice due to sickness actually lent themselves well in her dying scene with Marius in "A Little Fall of Rain." Elisha Beachy as Marius is dignified and heroic, and evokes a sense of deep loss in "Empty Chairs and Empty Tables." Kudos to young Yaakov Newman who is adorable as the spitfire Gavroche.

Mary Sink and Mark Schuliger are deliciously bawdy in the roles of Madame Thenardier and Thenardier, respectively. Throughout the complexities and heaviness of this musical, they offer perfect comedic timing and relief, and leave the audience craving more.

Jay Rittberger's impeccable, powerful vocals and commitment to the character make him a standout and audience favorite. Never wavering, Rittberger captures the essence of Enjolras with his incredibly secure vocal technique and dynamic performance.

The rest of the ensemble delved 100% into this musical, challenging themselves with conviction and credibility to make it a successful run.

Although set design is largely scaled down to fit the small stage, it, along with costume, lighting, and choreography, effectively portrays the period. My only gripe was not making use of the bridge in the suicide scene. 10-piece orchestra led by Stephanie Stephens offers a robust, magnificent sound which fully encompasses the theatre.

One cannot help being plunged into the passion and vulnerability of LES MISERABLES' music and characters. A stellar actor himself, David Bahgat is transitioning as one of Columbus' premier directors, who uses his creative genius and relentless dedication to the bring characters to life and create a spectacular theatrical feat.

You don't want to miss LES MISERABLES, which is currently running at the JCC Gallery Players through March 29. Tickets are nearly sold out. Get yours now by visiting www.jccgalleryplayers.org or calling 614-231-2731.

To post a comment, you must register and login.