J. Michael Bailey to Lead LES MISERABLES at Ziegfeld Theater; Full Cast Set!

The Ziegfeld Theater will welcome guest artist and local celebrity J. Michael Bailey to lead its production of LES MISERABLES in the role of Jean Valjean. J. Michael boasts his name on a short list of actors who have performed the role professionally, having recently performed it to critical acclaim at the Utah Shakespeare Festival in 2013. Bailey grew up in Clinton, Utah, and graduated from Weber State University in musical performance. He has since spent the last twenty years performing around the country.

LES MISERABLES, the smash-hit musical masterpiece (recently turned film) tells Victor Hugo's uncompromising tale of the struggle between justice and mercy in the harsh world of early 19th century France. Jean Valjean begins the story as a convict imprisoned for stealing a loaf of bread. After escaping, Jean Valjean is shown unconditional love from an unexpected source. This simple yet powerful gift allows him to overcome his dark past and become a man of honor and integrity, passing along the love he was shown to those who need it as desperately as he did. Throughout, Valjean is pursued by the unmerciful Inspector Javert, who will stop at nothing to see Valjean re-imprisoned, believing him incapable of changing his criminal nature. In the end, Javert is faced with a truth he cannot accept, that love can change even the most lost and destitute. Bursting with soaring melodies, and universally resonating themes, LES MISERABLES brings a timeless lesson to a new generation: "To love another person is to see the face of God."

LES MISERABLES has won over 100 international awards and has been seen by over 65 million people worldwide.

The production is directed by Artistic Director Rick Rea and music directed by acclaimed SLC-based music director Anne Puzey.

Ziegfeld Theater continues its third season in 2015 with another large-scale musical, after performing Fiddler on the Roof to sell-out crowds. Under the executive leadership of Caleb and Morgan Parry and the artistic leadership of Rick Rea, the theater pursues a mission of Professional Standard, Community Spirit as it strives to bring quality entertainment to diverse audiences in Northern Utah.

The opening gala and performance is Friday, April 10 at 7:30 p.m. Regular performances are 7:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday, with two Monday performances on May 4 and 11 at 7:30 pm. as well as 2:00 p.m. matinees on Saturdays May 9 and 16.

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