Based on the novel by Victor Hugo, Les Misérables follows prisoner 24601, a.k.a. Jean Valjean, as he is released from 19 years in prison. Upon his release, Valjean immediately gets caught stealing silver from the Bishop of Digne, but the Bishop's kindness encourages Valjean to seek a better life.
The show doesn't waste any time proving its talent. The opening "Prologue" features a strong ensemble of male voices, quickly followed by the impressive talent of Jacob Waid in the lead role of Jean Valjean. Waid's operatic voice is a perfect fit for this demanding role, and the audience is treated to an award-worthy performance from him. His vocals are impeccable, as demonstrated in songs like "Bring Him Home," and his acting talent is equally impressive. Also quick to impress with vocal talent is Amanda Kuchinski, who plays Fantine. She showcases her flawless voice in her beautiful performance of "I Dreamed a Dream." Her acting isn't quite on par with her singing, and if I'm being really critical I wasn't a fan of the wigs that she wore, but her voice is so good that it's easy to look past this.
In the role of Javert, Adam Clough provides a performance reminiscent of Russell Crowe in the 2012 movie version of Les Misérables, with the only major difference being that Clough is actually good. Other notable performances include John Anker Bow in the role of Thernardier and Maya Naff as Eponine. Both Bow and Naff have solid acting talent with the voices to match. Additionally, the ensemble as a whole is extremely talented, and the company numbers are a highlight of the show. Supporting cast members also provide quality performances that aren't quite as impressive as those of Waid, but nonetheless are good fits for the show.
While the talented cast of this production far outweighs the show's weaknesses, there are a few areas that don't quite live up to the high quality that the overall production provides. For starters, the set -- while visually appealing -- is extremely loud. Often during a quiet start of a solo or song, the set is loudly rolled on or off the stage, providing an unwelcome distraction. Another downfall to the show is the orchestra. With a small orchestra consisting only of trumpet, trombone, reeds, and percussion, the show features a mix of live and recorded music. The recorded music is often a welcome treat due to an unacceptable number of missed notes by the live musicians, most consistently the trumpet player. With a cast as talented as this one, it's unfortunate that the orchestra isn't of comparable quality. But in spite of its few weaknesses, the show comes through and ultimately treats the audience to a spectacular production.
At the end of the day, Dutch Apple's production of Les Misérables is a not-to-be missed performance full of talent. Les Miz veterans will be pleased with the quality of this show, while first-timers will be given a first-rate introduction to the renowned musical.
Les Misérables plays at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre May 7 through June 13, 2015. Additional details and ticket information can be found at www.dutchapple.com.
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