the mommy avenger

As a lifelong theater enthusiast, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless productions over the past three decades. Yet, few have resonated with me as profoundly as Les Misérables. Having attended well over a dozen performances, my anticipation for each new rendition remains undiminished. This week, the acclaimed national tour of Les Misérables graced Salt Lake City’s Eccles Theater.  I eagerly attended, curious to see how this production would measure up to its storied predecessors.

Set against the tumultuous backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables weaves a tale of redemption, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. At its heart is Jean Valjean, a man imprisoned for stealing a loaf of bread, who emerges from incarceration seeking a fresh start. Pursued relentlessly by the zealous Inspector Javert, Valjean’s journey intertwines with a diverse cast of characters: Fantine, a destitute mother striving for her child’s welfare; Eponine, ensnared in unrequited love; and a group of fervent revolutionaries aspiring for societal transformation. The narrative delves deep into themes of sacrifice, love, and the quest for redemption.

In any staging of Les Misérables, the portrayal of its central characters is paramount. A compelling Jean Valjean must embody both strength and vulnerability; Javert requires a stern exterior masking inner turmoil; Fantine should exude both fragility and unwavering maternal devotion; and Eponine needs to capture the essence of youthful yearning and heartache. The success of the production hinges on these portrayals.

In this tour, Jean Valjean is masterfully portrayed by Broadway veteran Nick Cartell, who brings a depth and gravitas to the role that only experience can provide. His rendition of “Bring Him Home” was both powerful and poignant, resonating deeply with the audience. Opposite him, Nick Rehberger’s Javert was locked in unwavering duty, his commanding presence and vocal prowess making the character’s internal conflict palpable.

However, it was Lindsay Heather Pearce’s portrayal of Fantine that truly captivated me. Historically, “I Dreamed a Dream” hasn’t been a personal favorite, but Pearce’s heartfelt performance brought a new depth to the song, moving me to tears. Her ability to convey Fantine’s despair and hope simultaneously was nothing short of extraordinary.

Mya Rena Hunter took on the role of Eponine, a character I’ve always held dear. While her solo moments left me yearning for a bit more nuance, her harmonies with Pearce were ethereal, their voices blending seamlessly to create moments of sheer musical beauty.

I’d also like to mention that Christian Mark Gibbs as Enjolras was the most powerful I’ve ever seen portrayed in that role and his performance impeccable.

As the story hurtles towards its climax, the final 20 minutes delivered an emotional crescendo that left me, despite my familiarity with the narrative, profoundly moved. The raw emotion and intensity of the cast’s performance during these concluding scenes reignited the passion and poignancy that make Les Misérables timeless.

This production is a testament to the enduring power of Victor Hugo’s masterpiece and the universal themes it explores. This rendition of Les Misérables offers a fresh and compelling experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this remarkable performance at the Eccles Theater, running until March 15, 2025. Tickets are available through the official Broadway at the Eccles website.

In a world where stories of hope and redemption are more vital than ever, Les Misérables continues to inspire and resonate, reminding us of the enduring strength of the human spirit.

^{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}