LES MISERABLES Breaks Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts Records

Highlighting a three month trend, "Les Misérables" broke box office records last week at the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts. The venerable show smashed previous attendance marks as more than 18,300 fans stormed the doors -- driving cash registers to ring up a record $1,400,000-plus in sales.

And that's just the opening curtain. Sales for other shows at the Center have also surged in the last three months. The hits include "My Funny Valentine," a sell-out comedy showcase featuring Bruce Bruce; "Celtic Woman" (March 2); "Mythbusters: Behind the Myths Tour," which has added a second show (March 25, 3pm and 7pm); and Ben Folds (March 22-23) and Natalie Merchant (May 29), each performing with the NC Symphony.

Fans also flocked to catch Carolina Ballet's illusion-infused production of "The Nutcracker" over the 2011-12 holiday season. Other box office contenders bringing in -- to use Variety's parlance -- boffo returns include the Taj Mahal Trio and Duhks performing for bigger-than-ever crowds as part of PineCone's music series.

"The Progress Energy Center was a pioneer in bringing great entertainment downtown, and it continues to set new standards," says General Manager Jim Lavery. "Not only is our mix of shows more attractive than ever, but the added appeal of the amphitheater and so many new restaurants and other hot spots make Raleigh an unbeatable destination."

The center is adding new events everyday, and the best place to keep up is on its interactive Web site: www.progressenergycenter.com.