Les Miserables School Edition
at Annandale High School

Reviewed on December 4, 2015

Emily Carbone
West Potomac High School
Submitted for publication to Washington Post - Fairfax

Can a thief really become an honest man? Can a group of schoolboys work together to overcome an oppressive government? Can someone who has known nothing but hate learn to accept another's love? The Annandale Theatre Company explored these touching topics and more through their recent production of Les Miserables, School Edition.

Les Miserables was originally an 1862 novel, written by French poet Victor Hugo. The novel follows the story of Jean Valjean, an ex-convict on a life-long journey to exist as an honest man. It was developed into a sung-through musical in 1985, and has since become the longest running musical in London's West End and the second longest running musical in the world. The show was nominated for twelve Tony Awards, and the 2012 film adaptation received three Academy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards. Les Miserables, School Edition condenses the original score while still preserving its trademark maturity and challenging musicality.

Annandale met this challenge full force, pulling off a truly impressive production. A clean-cut, deceptively simple set, designed by Xander Beasley and Beckmann Hollis, combined beautifully with detailed lighting elements, designed by Carson Binkley. Small changes within these technical pieces effectively indicated seamless transitions of time and location, easily guiding the audience through 19th century France. The passage of time was also made clear through well-placed makeup changes, designed by Anna Yates, Skylar Franzelas, and Jessica Smith.

The high school's accomplishments did not stop with their technicians. Onstage, a group of incredible young men demonstrated near-professional vocal ability, showcasing talent far beyond their years. Playing aging adults, William Rangel Cardozo (Javert) and Michael McLean (Valjean) consistently amazed the audience with their powerful and mature voices. McLean was especially impressive in songs that highlighted his massive range, such as "Who Am I?" and "Bring Him Home." Complementing these deep adult characters were two equally phenomenal tenors; Beckman Hollis as Enjolras and Leif Jomuad as Marius. In addition to their beautiful musicality, these two demonstrated powerful acting abilities, most evident in the songs "Red and Black" and "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables." All four young men tackled the show's speedy lyrics with ease, doing justice to the difficult, operatic score.

In addition to the men, the production's notable ladies included Lena Iglesias as Gavroche, Annie Stout as Madame Thenardier, and Rediate Zewdu as Eponine. Iglesias brought a much needed energy to the solemn script, fully embodying the essence of an excitable little boy, and Stout pulled out a round of comedic tricks, enhanced by her impressive, brassy vocal techniques. Zewdu communicated lovely, touching emotions throughout her performance, and showed moments of brilliant vocal power in her song "On My Own." All three of these women took their characters to heart, aiding in the production's believability and overall quality.

A fantastic theatre company provides much more than entertainment; it reminds audiences of their own emotions, and it takes them on a journey of self-discovery. On December 4, 2015, the Annandale Theatre Company gave us a beautiful reminder that "to love another person is to see the face of God."

Makiko Miyazaki
Walt Whitman High School
Submitted for publication to Washington Post - Fairfax

Chain-bound prisoners staggered down the auditorium aisle, under the orange glare of hanging streetlamps. A lone prisoner hauled a cart on stage, his face contorted with pique. In the crashing waves of music, the Annandale High School Theatre Company's production of Les Misérables - School Edition began.

Many people are familiar with this story of redemption, romance, and rebellion. Jean Valjean, a convict, breaks parole and starts his life anew. Subplots include the idealistic June Rebellion of 1832 and the romance between Valjean's adopted daughter and a rebel fighter. Based on the 1862 novel by Victor Hugo, Les Miserables originated in France and has had several long-running productions in London's West End and on Broadway. The 1987 original Broadway production won eight Tony Awards. The 2012 movie starring Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway won three Oscars.

Jean Valjean (Michael McLean) served nineteen years in jail for stealing bread to save his starving nephew. He is embittered towards the world, but after the bishop from whom he stole gives him mercy, Valjean swears to become an honest man. McLean delivered this iconic role with grace and authority. He displayed the intricate emotions through his sonorous voice that demonstrated impeccable techniques. Seventeen years after Valjean broke his parole, Paris is in turmoil; it is the June Revolution of 1832. Young idealists are angry that the French Revolution did little to save the poor from oppression. They fight to replace the French monarchy with a republic. Marius (Leif Jomuad) is a student revolutionary who falls in love with Cosette (Vinh On), an orphan whom Valjean raises as his own daughter. Marius is injured during the fight but saved by Valjean. He is the lone survivor among his revolutionary friends. Jomuad displayed Marius' transformation from a young romantic to a survivor hardened by war with notable vocal versatility. His silky, wooing voice was a sharp contrast to the melodized shrieks of agony during "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables/The Café Song," in which he angrily mourned his friends lost in the idealistic yet unpractical fight.

Blinded by his love for Cosette, Marius is oblivious to Eponine (Rediate Zewdu). Neglected by her parents, the Thenardiers (Xander Beasley and Annie Stout), Eponine covets Marius' love to no avail. Her longing yet haunting gazes were memorable during "On My Own/The Barricade." Eponine is eventually shot at the barricades. After a breathtakingly beautiful duet with Marius, Zewdu withered physically and vocally, and with a final weak smile, collapsed in Marius' arms. Among the onlookers of her death was Enjolras (Beckman Hollis), the charismatic leader of the revolution that ends in complete failure. Hollis portrayed Enjolras with a commanding voice and intense passion. Despite some faltering in energy, the ensemble added sparks to the show through strong vocal harmonies and funny acting moments.

Only one set was used, but doors, fences, painted images of sewers, etc. were added to change the scenes' settings. The lighting accompanied these changes in settings by changing colors. The lighting also intensified in important moments, such as Valjean's epiphany to atone for his past sins.

Although the June Rebellion fell, the rebels' voices bled with resilience as they marched onto the stage. They stared unflinchingly into the uncertain future as the last note of their courageous song echoed in the auditorium. Presenting the timeless importance of strength, love, and compassion, the Annandale Theater Company's production paid homage to a story that is truly a tour de force.

Frankie Mananzan
West Potomac High School
Submitted for publication to Red Apple 21 - FCPS

Les Miserables, one of the longest running Broadway musical in history, has achieved legendary status throughout the years. The beloved story originated from Victor Hugo's novel of the same name and has been adapted for film and television numerous times. With music from the renowned Claude-Michel Schonberg, this musical adaptation lives up to the original book, moving hearts all over the world with its touching tale and memorable melodies. The Annandale High School Theater Company put on a moving performance of Les Miserables that captured the variety of emotions within the story.

Set in France during the early 1800s, the story follows the life of Jean Valjean, a poor working class man who was imprisoned for 19 years after stealing a loaf of bread. Once released, Valjean is constantly on the run from police inspector Javert after breaking parole. This lifelong chase during a tumultuous time in France is intertwined with other people's stories of love, liberty, and tragedy.

Jean Valjean (Michael McLean) led the whole show with a powerful, bright voice, complemented by a sharp and intense Javert (William Rangel Cardozo). McLean was consistent in his vocal excellence during the entire show — a feat that is especially impressive considering the difficulty of the show.

The vocal talents did not end there. Marius'(Leif Jomuad) strong voice was gripping, showcased especially during his song "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables." Jomuad shone brightly among the cast, playing a young man caught between love and war. Cosette (Vinh On) sang to the delicate side of Marius' heart, while Enjolras (Beckman Hollis), Marius' brother in the revolution, brought forth his fighting spirit with alluring and energetic vocals. Hollis stood out most notably during the monumental song, "Red and Black." The energy and passion in his voice kept the audience at the edge of their seats, hearts filled with excitement for the rebellion.

One of the most moving performances came from Eponine (Rediate Zewdu), with her gentle yet potent performance both vocally and physically. Zewdu's face precisely emoted the familiar look of hurt caused by unrequited love. It was a brilliant and heartbreaking performance.

Some of the lighter points of the show were brought out by Master and Madame Thenardier, played by Xander Beasley and Annie Stout, respectively. Beasley's silly charm was evident from the moment he first stepped onstage. Stout's brassy voice was filled with sarcastic cynicism that made the audience love to hate her. Together, they made a powerful and memorable duo that delighted the audience with every entrance.

Alongside the actors, the technical elements of the show truly engaged the audience in the reality set onstage. The street lamps hanging over the house seats blended the two worlds together — the world onstage and the world in the audience. The orchestra set and maintained the mood of the entire show, immersing the listeners in the emotions set forth by the story.

Les Miserables has stood the test of time. The story has remained popular because of its passion and genuine heart. The dedication that the students of Annandale High School put into this production was obvious from the opening number to the final bow.

Hailey Scherer
Flint Hill School
Submitted for publication to FCPS Community News

Performing the acclaimed Les Misérables at the high school level is a daunting task, but with remarkable baritone vocals, effective lighting and sets, an impressive orchestra, and an energetic ensemble, Annandale High School's rendition proved an overall success.

Victor Hugo first published the novel, Les Misérables, in 1862. In 1980, the musical premiered in the Palais des Sports in Paris, France, and has since become the longest-running West End musical in history, It is globally-acclaimed and has won eight Tony Awards, including one for Best Musical. The story takes place in France, beginning in 1815 and it culminates in the June Rebellion of 1832. The plot centers around the struggles and redemption of ex-convict Jean Valjean.

Michael McLean (Jean Valjean) hit every one of the notes in Valjean's unusually wide bass-to-falsetto range with seeming ease. He filled the theater with a gorgeous full baritone during the content-rich "Prologue," during his soliloquy ("What Have I Done?"), and during "Fantine's Death/The Confrontation." McLean showed incredible vocal development as his character progressed and demonstrated considerable skill in his falsetto capability in "Bring Him Home."

Leif Jomuad (Marius) paired admirable vocal technique and sound with arguably the strongest acting performance of the show. His voice was clear and strong, with well-controlled and well-used vibrato. In all his actions, he seemed genuine. His rendition of "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" was one of the strongest moments of the show. It poignantly portrayed the anger and unspeakable grief that follows the death of one's friends and comrades-in-arms.

Beckman Hollis (Enjolras) demonstrated impressive vocal strength. He inspired his fellow revolutionaries and the audience with rich, full notes charged with confidence. "ABC Café" ("Red and Black") proved an audience favorite.

Rediate Zewdu (Eponine), though a freshman, gave the strongest female vocal performance and one of the strongest acting performances, delivering a nuanced character portrayal that constantly drew the eye in a positive way. Her voice and that of Jomuad blended wonderfully, creating a wonderful texture and bringing tears to many eyes in "A Little Fall of Rain."

Annie Stout and Xander Beasley (Madame Thenardier and Thenardier) provided the comic relief of the show with their bawdy and brassy demeanor, garnering many laughs in "Master of the House" and "The Wedding."

Lena Iglesias (Gavroche) portrayed the innocent light of the show with an appropriate enthusiasm and childish bravado.

The live student orchestra played with talent not usually heard from high school students. They demonstrated seeming mastery over the complex score of Les Miserables and maintained a strong, but not overwhelming, presence throughout the show.

The lighting (designed by Carson Binkley) complimented the sets and action, and contributed another level of symbolism to the play. For example, the use of red gels served appropriately as a well-placed motif of the rebellion.

The set was simple, elegant, and adaptable for quick scene changes, something essential to a longer show. It was comprised of one large main piece, a bridge with stone walls. Different doors and windows applied to the space under the bridge changed the feel of the scene completely. The stone walls also had rock climbing handholds (which looked as if they belonged) so that actors could really climb the wall of the barricade during combat.

With strong vocals, acting, orchestra, sets, and lighting choices, Annandale High School Theater Company's admirable rendition of the famed Les Miserables left audience members with chills of the best kind.

Yvonne Nguyen
Hayfield Secondary School
Submitted for publication to Patch.com - Fairfax

"To love another person is to see the face of God." Told through a sequence of poignant songs, Les Miserables is a harrowing tale of rebellion and redemption. A devastating piece of theatre, Les Miserables is an audience favorite that perfectly captures the spirit of revolution and the strength of the oppressed. In Annandale High School's ambitious production of Les Miserables, the cast and crew truly told a story that resonated with all audience members.

Les Miserables is centered around the life of French ex-convict, Jean Valjean. After being released from 19 torturous years in prison, Valjean makes the bold decision to break his parole and assume a new identity in order to become the man he once dreamed of being. Though he is meticulously hunted by policeman Javert, Valjean finds his life's purpose in raising a young orphan, Cosette. Simultaneously, French school boys strive to incite a revolution by boldly risking their lives on a barricade. Hoping that their actions will inspire the people to revolt against the corruption of the government and inhumane treatment of the poor, these school boys risk it all on one heroic gesture. A riveting tale of morality and cruelty, Les Miserables is based on a book by Victor Hugo. It opened as a musical in France in 1980 and was translated into English only five years later. Les Miserables went on to become the longest running show on London's West End.

Jean Valjean, portrayed by Michael McLean certainly delivered an amazing vocal performance. His technique was unshakable. He hit every note effortlessly. What's more, McLean managed to play the role of the father-figure very well. Creating heartfelt moments with Fantine (Anna Yates) and Cosette (Vinh On), McLean's posture, deep voice, and physical idiosyncrasies created amazing chemistry with several different actors on stage.

Vinh On (Cosette) and Leif Jomuad (Marius) took the stage as the star-crossed lovers of the production. Both actors did an incredible job creating romance. With lingering gazes, subtle smiles, and sonorous harmonies, these two brought light to an otherwise tragic story. Even in moments when the attention of the scene was directed away from them, On and Jomuad remained dedicated to their roles, a commendable feat. Also, their two voices blended together beautifully, Jomuad's expressive, strong voice and On's delicate, sweet voice. In songs such as "A Heart Full of Love", the two demonstrated great teamwork.

Although traditionally done with a large ensemble, Annandale's production featured a smaller chorus. The ensemble could be seen making distinct character choices and definitely added to numbers such as "Red and Black". In this number, the energy built to a new level and the ensemble fed off of each other well. Although in other moments some characters lacked conviction in their movements, the ensemble was an essential part of the overall impact of the show.

In such a musically-challenging show, the pit orchestra played an enormous role in pulling the audience into the world of Les Miserables. The orchestra almost never drowned out the actors and the balance of volume was always ideal. Although at times there were issues with the microphones when actors could not be heard, the orchestra continued to be a strong constant throughout the production.

Executing an extremely mature and difficult musical, both in terms of emotion and vocals, the cast of Annandale High School's Les Miserables delivered a dynamic rendition of an iconic audience favorite.

Lucy Dolcich
South Lakes High School
Submitted for publication to Connection

The year is 1815 — France is swarming with poverty-ridden, revolutionary townsfolk, from the Lovely Ladies in the alleyways to the gaunt children looking for crumbs of food to the young men fighting for their ideals. On Friday night, the Annandale Theatre Company recreated this scene during its presentation of the classic musical, Les Misérables: School Edition.

The masterpiece Les Misérables was originally a novel, authored by Victor Hugo in 1862. It is considered to be one of the greatest and most influential novels in history. The French musical adaptation occurred in 1980, with lyrics by Alain Boublil and Jean-Marc Natel and music by Claude-Michel Schonberg. In 1983, an English translation was created by Herbert Kretzner. Beginning with the London production in October 1985, Les Miserables is the second longest-running musical worldwide. The plot intertwines numerous story lines, but mainly follows the ex-convict Jean Valjean, who breaks his parole and flees the relentless Inspector Javert. Throughout his newfound life, Valjean realizes the importance of altruism, as he cares for both Cosette, the child of the ill-fated Fantine, and later for the young revolutionaries of the town.

Leading the performance was Michael McLean as Jean Valjean. McLean brought a subtle twist to his interpretation of Valjean, as he captured the true goodness and paternal nature of the character. Blending this with his incredible vocal range, McLean created a Valjean to remember. Alongside McLean was William Rangel Cardozo, portraying the role of Javert. With consistent characterization and crisp vocals, Cardozo embodied the unyielding inspector.

Supporting actors also performed with strong dedication and understanding of their characters. Fantine (Anna Yates) filled the auditorium with her gentle yet astounding vocals. Her daughter Cosette (Vinh Oh) kept up a childlike innocence, creating an accurate representation of the blossoming young woman. With her pure voice, Éponine (Rediate Zewdu) brought intensity to her role as an unrequited lover. Marius (Leif Jomuad)was an audience favorite. Joumuad's balanced mannerisms of a schoolboy and a revolutionary, along with a fantastic voice, made him a standout performer.

The technical aspects of the show worked together without seeming out of place. A base wall set was transformed into different settings, from the sewers to the café, with simple yet effectively painted set pieces. The lights were especially synchronized with the performers, as vivid hues followed and represented the feeling of the scenes. The orchestra was also amazing — not one note was out of place. Some microphone problems were present, but they did not hinder the performance.

The Annandale Theatre Company created an amazing Les Miserables, leaving each audience member wanting to come see it One Day More.

Jenny Sutton
West Potomac High School
Submitted for publication to Fairfax County Times

Annandale High School delivered a vocally stunning and cohesive performance of the beloved show, Les Misérables. The widely-acclaimed musical, based on the 19th century novel by Victor Hugo, tells the story of Jean Valjean, a man on the run from his parole officer, Javert. The story spans seventeen years, from 1815 to 1832 as Valjean tries to survive a revolutionary France. The Broadway production showed from 1987-2003, making it the fifth longest-running Broadway show in history in addition to one of the most recognized. The Annandale Theatre Company did justice to the intricate story of Les Misérables, with moving musical numbers, driven character portrayals and believable period visuals.

With the exception of a few microphone blips, the show's vocals were crisp and harmonious, striking a balance with the impressive orchestra both in between and during numbers. The orchestra played at just the right volume not to be distracting, yet still contribute to the beautiful music on the stage. The sung dialogue of the actors was consistently pierced with emotion and conviction, making the story line engaging and easy to follow. Michael McLean as Jean Valjean was a vocal anchor during dialogue and gave a powerful, emotional delivery in songs like "Who am I?" and "Bring Him Home." In "Fantine's Arrest," McLean, Anna Yates (Fantine), and William Rangel Cardozo (Javert) gave a dynamic performance showing off their respective acting and vocal strengths.

Another highlight of the show was the scenes with Rediate Zewdu (Eponine) and Leif Jomuad (Marius). Both actors showed exemplary acting skills and compassion in the way they sang their respective parts. "Little Fall of Rain" and "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" were both grounding, attention-grabbing numbers. Other standout vocalists included Beckman Hollis as Enjolras and John Lopez as an ensemble member.

The performances were complemented with strong technical aspects that developed the story's time period and mood. Light Designer Carson Binkley and Light Crew member Alex Bellem implemented professionally-done sidelights and CYC lights that were tailored for each scene. These lights lit up a simple yet practical set designed by Xander Beasley, which featured a bridge atop stone walls with rock-climbing pieces that actors utilize throughout the show. The set and costume changes were quick and seamless. Costumes by designer Maya Koch were appropriate and high-quality, from Javert's officer hat to Cosette's dress.

Through passionate singing and dramatic lighting and costumes, the Annandale Theatre Company gave an emotional and visually-pleasing production of Les Misérables that was nothing short of lovely.