Orlando Shakespeare Theater Opens Season with LES MISERABLES Tonight

Orlando Shakespeare Theater in Partnership with UCF will present LES MISERABLES from tonight, September 10 - October 12, 2014 in the Margeson Theater. Featuring a talented mix of Broadway veterans and Orlando Shakes favorites, the production will be the largest musical in the Theater's history. Single tickets to LES MISERABLES ($15 - $55) are available now by calling (407) 447-1700 ext. 1, visiting www.orlandoshakes.org, or in person at the John and Rita Lowndes Shakespeare Center (812 East Rollins Street).

Set in the early 19th-century, a French peasant named Jean Valjean is on a quest for redemption after serving nineteen years in jail for stealing a loaf of bread. When a compassionate bishop inspires him with a tremendous act of mercy, Valjean decides to start his life anew, but is relentlessly tracked down by Police Inspector Javert. Along the way, Valjean and a slew of characters are swept into France's revolution, where a group of young visionaries make their last stand at a street barricade.

"With a standout cast of 27 and a 10-piece orchestra, you'll see the Margeson Theater transform into 19th century France," said Artistic Director Jim Helsinger. "I believe audiences will be swept away by Victor Hugo's passionate story of revolution, love, and survival of the human spirit."

LES MISERABLES features Michael Hunsaker (Jean Valjean), Davis Gaines (Javert), Lianne Marie Dobbs (Fantine), James Beaman (Thénardier), Anne Hering (Madame Thénardier), Caitlyn Caughell (Eponine), Heather Botts (Cosette), Matt McMahan (Enjolras), and Tim Quartier (Marius).

The Ensemble includes Ana Bateman, Sarah Caroline Billings, David Bracamonte, Anna Carol, John DeLisa, Gavin Esham, Amanda Frennier, Rashad Guy, Liz Mignacca, Erik Nelson, Christopher Joel Onken, Danielle Reneé, Michael Sheehy, Ryan M. Skiles, and Seth Wallen.

The Children's Cast includes Eleanor "Ellie" McPherson and Julia Jordan as Little Cosette, Maddie Belanoff and Macy Peele as Young Eponine, and Jackson Chase and Luke Timmel as Gavroche.

The Orlando Shakes artistic team includes Director-Choreographer DJ Salisbury, Musical Director Ken Clifton, Scenic Designer Kat Conley, Costume Coordinator/Resident Designer Denise R. Warner, Lighting Designer Bert Scott, and Sound Designer Craig M. Beyrooti.

Photos by Landon St. Gordon