BWW Reviews: Paramount's LES MISERABLES Dazzles, But Only Scratches the Surface

It's clear Jim Corti, Paramount Theatre's Artistic Director, and his crew go to great lengths to ensure audiences have an aesthetic treat awaiting them when attending one of the theatre's productions. Nearly always, especially as of late, Paramount's sets are always top-notch and the vocals from the actors are consistently a highlight. In "Les Miserables," Paramount's current production (directed by Corti himself) running through April 26th, there is certainly no disappointment when it comes to these areas. With a truly awe-inspiring set by Kevin Depinet and Jeff Kmiec (which includes not only a revolving sweeping staircase, but also a circled catwalk hanging from the ceiling above) and a large cast of fine voices who easily bring the vocal power the score demands (Travis Taylor as Enjolras, with a booming voice and impassioned drive, is a stand-out), this production certainly rises to the occasion in creating many rousing theatrical moments.

But, while audiences are treated to a feast for the eyes and ears at Paramount, what of the heart and mind? Corti's direction of his productions seems to be less consistent on this side of things, occasionally taking great care to delve deep into the characters and the possibilities within the script (as exemplified in last year's "Rent"), while other times paying less attention to honesty and more toward the dramatic flair. Unfortunately, "Les Miserables" falls on the latter side and, despite inventive physical staging, emotional honesty and any exploration of themes deeper than what's on the surface are left to be desired.

To be fair, it's nearly impossible to expunge "Les Miserables" of all of its melodrama; and, in some cases, this all-out, blatant declaration of thoughts and feelings are part of its charm. For some, the exciting visuals and great singing will be enough (as proven by the lively reception of the audience at this past Saturday's performance).

However, with a property as ubiquitous as "Les Miserables," a musical it is likely many in the audience will have seen before or be familiar with, infusing the piece with honestly and real passion can become essential to keeping the audience feeling as emotionally engaged as if they have no idea what the night's proceedings will bring. Finding these moments of truth and sincerity can also transcend "Les Miserables" beyond its trap of simply being a night of concert and spectacle. The cast is filled with talented actors that I am sure are more than capable of further fleshing out their characters, but it seems Corti is more focused, in this production, on guiding his actors to match the size of the physical production rather than trusting that the audience will respond to more subtle, realistic moments, even amid the grand dramatics of the rest of the night.

Much care and effort was clearly put into this production and one must applaud Paramount for continuously staging such full-scale, lavish musicals. In the case of "Les Miserables," however, the focus of bringing the story to life as sincerely as possible got lost amidst the spectacular grandiosity of the production.

"Les Miserables" is currently running through April 26th at Paramount Theatre in Aurora, IL (23 E. Galena Blvd.). Tickets range from $41 - $54 and can be purchased at www.ParamountAurora.com or by calling (630-896-6666).

Photo Credit: Charles Osgood

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