J. Anthony Crane News

There is probably little to say or write about Les Miserables that has not already been said or written. Claude-Michel Schonberg's epic musical, based on Victor Hugo's equally epic 1862 novel, first captured audiences' imaginations as a concept piece in France in 1980. Since the reimagined English language version starring Colm Wilkinson and Patti LuPone premiered in London in 1985, productions, special concert events and revivals have sprung up throughout the world, including on Broadway, where the show's original run lasted over 16 years and it has twice been revived. Les Miserables has also been adapted for film, including the 2012 musical version, which starred the likes of Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe and Eddie Redmayne, and garnered Anne Hathaway an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. Indeed, after more than 30 years as part of our cultural lexicon, Les Miserables remains a musical theater juggernaut, whose enduring themes of redemption, loyalty and love, incredible score and sheer longevity imbue it with an unmatched sense of gravitas.

Les Miserables has been an audience favorite for nearly 40 years for all the reasons you would imagine: its memorable, emotionally impactful characters; the songs that stick in your head; the epic battle sequences; and its timeless themes of forgiveness, morality, and love. The touring production currently playing at Rochester's Auditorium Theatre checks all of these boxes, providing a unique and emotional theatrical experience for audiences of all ages (as evidenced by the many school groups in attendance on opening night).

Casting for Cameron Mackintosh's acclaimed production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg's Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, LES MISERABLES, has been announced for its much anticipated St. Louis engagement at the Fabulous Fox Theatre direct from a celebrated two-and-a-half year Broadway engagement.

Broadway in Richmond at the Altria Theater opens its 2018-2019 season with a phenomenal bang. Boublil and Schonberg's Les Miserables returns to Richmond through October 28. Fans old and new will enjoy this garden-fresh, pitch-perfect duplication of the 2014 Broadway revival directed by Laurence Connor and James Powell. Tickets can be purchased here.

Les Miserables is a 'classic' many theatergoers have seen over and over again, with a reputation that comes with its own set of expectations. Because the show is practically timeless, new productions are faced with the challenge to come up with fresh ways to tell the story of Jean Valjean, while keeping the moments we've all grown to love intact. The latest national tour that recently opened at the Hippodrome Theatre does just that-and possibly more

No need to bury the lede: this production of LES MISERABLES is the most true-to-Broadway theatrical experience I have ever had outside of the Great White Way. Cameron Mackintosh's subtle updates breathe new life into the classic material, and deliver one of those rarified theatrical moments in which everything comes together as intended - the kind of show where you catch yourself holding your breath, lest you miss a moment.

J. Anthony Crane returns to Houston to play LES MISERABLES' amoral pickpocket, Monsieur Thenardier, at the Hobby Center. We talk villainy, crazy wigs, and why nobody puts Thenardier in a corner. See our conversation inside!

The national tour of Les Miserables will welcome Paige Smallwood in the role of 'Eponine' beginning Sunday, August 5. Paige takes over the role for Emily Bautista who was just announced to star as 'Kim' in the new national tour of Miss Saigon. Parker Dzuba will step into the role of 'Gavroche' beginning August 9 as Jonah Mussolino departs.

In the history of musical theater certain shows have had their place in time while others seem to transcend lifetimes. Parents bring their children to the same musical that their parents brought them to at their age and suddenly a new family tradition has started. The nice thing about traditions is that they grow and evolve, just like the latest show to come to DCPA: The new touring production of Les Miserables. 

There is a reason that Les Miserables is the longest running musical of all time. It is hopeful and beautiful in its dark setting and the sense of rebellion and companionship the audiences leave with, have made it a classic part of the theatre community in its 33 years.

There are very few musicals that leave you experiencing a whirlwind of emotions and are supplemented by truly remarkable music. LES MISERABLES is the perfect combination of both and is definitely a must-see for all theatre-goers. On July 10th the touring production of LES MISERABLES presented by Broadway Across Canada had its first performance in Vancouver at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre and will continue until Sunday July 15th. Highlighting the story of Jean Valjean (Prisoner #24601) in 19th century France, we follow him throughout his life after he is released on parole and strives for a better future. With its action, romance, humor, and drama the touring production of LES MISERABLES is one that appeals to a wide audience leaving each person completely in awe.

Playing at the San Diego Civic Theatre through June 3rd LES MISERABLES is an excellent production of an audience favorite.  For ticket information and show times go to www.broadwaysd.com

Casting for Cameron Mackintosh's acclaimed production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg's Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, LES MISERABLES, has been announced for its much anticipated Albuquerque engagement at Popejoy Hall direct from a celebrated two-and-a-half year Broadway engagement. To purchase tickets, visit unmtickets.com, popejoypresents.com, call 505-925-5858, or visit the UNM Ticket Offices at the UNM Bookstore and Dreamstyle Arena (The Pit). Ticket prices start at $40. For a sneak peek, please visit www.LesMiz.com.

Nearly two hundred years ago, a small, two-day revolution in Paris (The June Rebellion of 1832) brought together crowds of students and working-class French citizens who could no longer stay silent and were prepared to fight to the deaths over working wages and conditions. And, whether you're familiar with this story or not, there's never been a better time to 'hear the people sing' than in the exuberant revival tour of the Broadway staple, LES MISERABLES, now on stage at The Music Hall at Fair Park.

Les Miz, based on the book by Victor Hugo, is now in its 32nd year, having played to more than 70 million people in 44 countries and 22 languages. It's the fifth-longest-running Broadway musical of all time. And if the enthusiastic reception at the Marcus Center on opening night is any indication, Boubil and Schonberg's masterpiece continues to keep a strangle hold on Milwaukee-area hearts.

Casting for Cameron Mackintosh's acclaimed production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg's Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, LES MISERABLES, has been announced for its much-anticipated Madison engagement at Overture Center from the Arts direct from a celebrated two-and-a-half year Broadway engagement. Tickets are very limited. For availability, please visit the Overture Center box office (201 State Street), overture.org or call 608.258.4141.  For a sneak peek, please visit www.LesMiz.com.

 The touring production of Les Miserables has officially opened in Montreal at Place Des Arts, coming from its highly praised, two-and-a-half year run on Broadway. The show opened February 7th, at Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier to eager spectators ready and willing to immerse themselves in early nineteenth century France, iconic songs, invigorating ensemble numbers and stunning sets. Expectations were high and excitement was palpable.

The nominees for the 2018 Helen Hayes Awards were announced on February 5, 2018. One of the country's most prestigious cultural honors, The Helen Hayes Awards recognizes and celebrates excellence in professional theatre throughout the Washington metropolitan area. The National Theatre's Helen Hayes Gallery set the scene for the announcement of nominees in 47 categories for artistic excellence, and the theatre companies eligible for the 2017 John Aniello Award for Outstanding Emerging Theatre Company. The recipient of the 2018 Helen Hayes Tribute will be announced shortly.

BroadwayWorld presents a comprehensive weekly roundup of regional stories around our Broadway World, which include videos, editor spotlights, regional reviews and more. This week, we feature LES MIS, WAITRESS, PRSCILLA, and More!

Based on Victor Hugo's 1862 novel of the same name, Les Miserables tells the story of an ex-convict who after serving nineteen years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread, goes on a quest for redemption. When a kind bishop inspires him by a tremendous act of mercy, the ex-convict known as Jean Valjean breaks his parole as he decides to start his life anew. As time goes on, Valjean has relentlessly been pursued by a ruthless police inspector, hoping to bring him to justice. Though along the way, a group of young idealists make their last stand at a street barricade during a revolutionary period in France.