| LES MISERABLES |
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Are you the type to cringe when you see an ad in the paper promoting a local non-profit theatre group production of a massive Broadway/West End musical? Sometimes that reaction can be warranted – but not when it’s for the Ingatians Musical Society’s 2009 production of Les Miserables. With a cast of voices that would rival any other, an orchestra primed for action and a budget worthy of the requirements of such a production the Schonell Theatre was transformed into nineteenth century France much to the delight of the supportive and appreciative opening night audience. The costumes were many and varied but all just right, the set was impressive and moved around by a precise and hardworking backstage crew (there’s even a revolve), and the orchestra were spot on every time. Despite some minor microphone hiccups the well costumed cast did a fine job of bringing the wonderful score to life. Without time to go into detail, standout performances came from Luke Venables, Lauren Van De Ven, Kirby Lunn and Chris Herden. Director Simone De Haas has outdone herself by being able to wrangle over 20 performers, an orchestra and special effects including gunfire in this mammoth production. Her skill combined with that of co-musical directors Harmony Woollett and Edgar Chan makes for an epic production – literally, this is Les Mis we’re talking about and the full version won’t see you leaving the theatre until around the 11pm mark. So if you can afford the price tag and have a few spare hours wasting away, head out for some French. Bon appetit! WHEN: At the Schonell Theatre UQ until Friday Oct 16 LAUREN DILLON |
