LES MISÉRABLES

Jean Valjean, released from 19 years of hard labor for stealing a loaf of bread, transforms himself into a respected businessman known for his kindness and mercy. But his past haunts him in the form of a relentless inspector dedicated to returning him to prison. This full-cast production captures the poignancy of each character, the injustice of the French monarchy, and the redemptive power of faith and love. Copious music and special effects enrich the text but never overpower the vocals. The performances of each actor, up to the finest stage standards, vividly bring the story to life, particularly those of Henry Goodman as the smarmy con man, Tanadier, and Lee Cornwall as the child revolutionary, Gavroche. Joss Ackland, as Victor Hugo narrating the tale, ties the performance together with compassion and a sense of wisdom. R.P.L. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award
(c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 04]