Les Miserables (School Edition)

By Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg

Performed: April 2009

Review by Dave Stacey:-

THIS SHOW IS FAR FROM MISERABLE

THE relentless pursuit by an officer of the law of a parole breaker who makes a new life for himself is the theme of Les Miserables — School Edition presented at Burton's Brewhouse this week. Performed entirely by students and schoolchildren of Burton Little Theatre Company and directed by John Bowness, the show is a feast of top-notch singing.

As it is music all the way with not a single spoken word, this production must have entailed long and arduous rehearsal, prodigious memory and dedicated performance by principals and all other members of the cast.

It was wonderfully done and rewarded by a standing ovation from the large and appreciative audience on opening night.

Tim Robinson, as the man who served 19 years in a chain gang, then broke parole to become a respected factory owner and mayor, steeped in good deeds and a desire to help his fellow men and women, demonstrated a powerful singing voice in a variety of emotions. Jack Dent, as his pursuer, also excelled, not least in the moving scene when he is torn by conflict between duty and the debt he feels when his quarry saves his life. Jessica Skinner as the waif raised by the mayor to become an attractive woman and Scarlett Dixon as her rival in love give great singing performances. The man whose affection they both covet is admirably played by Mitch Corner. Impressive comedy roles filled by Liam Atton and Harley Pantall are an outstanding feature.

The whole is set at a time of failed insurrection and deeds of bravery at the barricades in France. The show continues until tomorrow.