The Eccles production of LES MIZ is the dream we dreamed.
LES MISÉRABLES remains an inspiring, emotional, and epic musical four decades after its premiere. We’re still in awe. The current production, based on the 2014 Broadway revival, is grandly mounted.
There’s no argument that LES MIZ is one of the best musicals. The story of Jean Valjean is tremendously moving. The characters are memorable, with wonderful storylines. The songs are epic, powerful, emotional, and passionate.
For this reason and others, there is a near-religious devotion to LES MIZ in Utah. The love story, social commentary, and tale of Christian morality are elements in Victor Hugo’s book that have been lovingly transferred to the stage by its creators.
Surprising for a tour production, each cast member’s bravura performance is the hallmark of this Broadway Across America production. Playing the lead characters and doing them justice is a Herculean feat. Nick Cartell as Jean Valjean and Nick Rehberger as Javert are truly gifted. Without hesitation, I can say that they are the best performers I’ve seen in these roles, and I’ve seen the show innumerable times.
Cartell has extraordinary range, and there’s breathtaking power in his two major numbers, “Who Am I?” and “Bring Him Home.” His voice, rich and commanding, is perfectly matched to Valjean’s internal journey of transformation. Even in the massive, barn-like Eccles hall, his passion and tenderness are clear.
Too often, the actor playing Javert is one-dimensional, but the robust-voiced Rehberger supplies depth and nuance while still appropriately authoritative. His interpretation of Javert is as intense as it is haunting.
Lindsay Heather Pearce as Fantine delivers the heart-rendering signature song “I Dreamed a Dream” with all the tragedy and heartbreak of her character in each line. Another stand out was Mya Rena Hunter as Éponine. At the conclusion of the sweeping “On My Own” ballad, there very nearly was a midshow standing ovation, for her lovely vocals and how she mined the depth of the song with skilled acting.
Simply, this glorious LES MIZ is not be missed.
► Eccles Theater, through March 15
