Les Miserables, the international smash hit that may be the most popular musical in the world, is coming to Santa Clarita’s Performing Arts Center for eight performances this summer. Epic, grand and uplifting, Les Miserables packs an emotional wallop that has thrilled audiences all over the world and it promises to be the entertainment experience of the summer. Presented by the Santa Clarita Regional Theatre, this sung-through pop opera has captivated the hearts of 65 million people with its powerful affirmation of the human spirit.
Produced for the SCRT by the Canyon Theatre Guild, this production of Boublil and Schönberg’s classic sweeps the audience through the epic tale of passion and destruction in 19th century France. Discover a nation in the grip of revolution, where convict Jean Valjean is on the run. Hunted relentlessly by the policeman Javert for breaking his parole, he must leave his past behind and keep his vow to raise the young orphaned Cosette. With revolution in the air, Javert is closing in, and Jean Valjean has no choice but to fight for his life and sacrifice everything to protect the people he loves. Finally, during the Paris student uprising of 1832, Javert must confront his ideals after Valjean spares his life and saves that of the student revolutionary, Marius who has captured the heart of Valjean’s adopted daughter. His world-view shattered, Javert commits suicide, and Valjean at last attains the peace he has sought for so long.
Under the direction of TimBen Boydston and Patti Finley this production of Les Miserables will feature a cast of 80, and a full orchestra under the direction of Patricia Graham. Virginia Stewart is vocal director, Musette Caing is choreographer, Mary Rosebrock and Wendy Hahn are designing the costumes and the set is being designed by John Alexopoulos and Doug Holiday. Performances are Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. on July 20 and 27, and August 3 and 10. Sunday matinee performances at 2 p.m. are on July 21 and 28 and August 4 and 11. Ticket prices range from $12 to $29 depending on seat location. All performances are at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons (26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita).
Tickets are on sale now at the Santa Clarita Regional Theatre’s box office at the CTG, 24242 Main Street in Old Town Newhall, at 661-799-2702.