Broadway By The Bay has brought Cameron Mackintosh’s “Les Miserables” to the Fox Theatre in Redwood City with a stunning production and a first class company with a Broadway caliber production.
When Victor Hugo wrote his classic novel that sweeps through three turbulent decades of 19th century France, he never could have envisioned his story with the splendid music and presentation of this legendary show.
“Les Miz” has been translated into 21 languages and played in over 38 countries with more than 50 major awards. It is the first in Broadway musical theatre history to play in China. “Les Miz” has been seen by over 80 million people worldwide and doesn’t seem to be losing steam.
This show was the second longest running on Broadway and has a following (where ever it plays) with an insatiable appetite to see it over and over again with standing ovations. This is more than a Broadway musical, it is an opera, and as operas must have superb singers this production offers the finest in all the leading roles.
Adam S. Campbell is magnificent as Jean Valjean, his stunning tenor and counter tenor presents remarkable moments, especially when he plaintively prays for the life of Marius, his daughter’s love with “Bring Him Home”. He carries a heavy load with an extraordinary delivery and is in almost every scene.
Mia Fryvecind Gimenez as Fantine, Cosette’s ill fated mother is another jewel. Her sound is clear and pure. The obsessed Javert is ably carried by Anthony Bernal who holds his own with this illustrious company. Erin Ashe as Eponine puts a poignant spin on the part and delivers with a moving, emotional charm.
A suburb 17 piece orchestra under Musical Director Sean Kana handles this beautiful – difficult score delivering amazing pure sound that brings this production up to Broadway quality.
Jasen Jeffrey directs with detailed attention with associate director Maureen Duffy Frentz and moves the show at expeditious speed that attention is kept throughout the multi-plotted story. The entire cast is first rate.
Kelly James Tighe’s creative sets moves quickly before your eyes. Blink and you will miss an important moment. Lighting by Michael Ramsaur and exceptional sound by Jon Hayward enhances the production into believability. Kate Schroeder’s costumes are right on mark for the time period.
“Les Miz” takes the prize for one of the longest first acts. So be sure and be comfortable before you are seated.
This new production of “Les Miz” delivers a masterpiece of theatre, that should not be missed. Music lovers will savor its rich score; theatre aficionados will appreciate its rich inventiveness.
WHERE: Fox Theatre, located at 2215 Broadway St. in Redwood City
WHEN: Performances take place Saturdays and Sundays through March 22
RUNNING TIME: Two hours and fifty-five minutes including one intermission
TICKETS: $47-$69
TICKETS, RESERVATIONS & INFORMATION:
(831) 649-1070 or visit goldenstatetheatre.com
