The Furman Pauper Players premiered their latest show Les Misérables, this past weekend. The musical has captivated the world with its balance between the musical elements and an emotionally-driven plot, perhaps even more so since the British film version debuted Christmas 2012. Knowing expectations were high and time limited, the Pauper Players took on the task of preparing this production.
Directed by senior Rebecca Shield, the production began work before the start of the spring semester, which included a one week “Les Mis” boot camp where all the cast members, who auditioned in the fall, met for ten hours each day rehearsing and memorizing lines. Shield said she believed that the music was the most important part.
“Music expresses the story and touches people in ways that words can’t,” she said.
Shield said the music needed to be the primary focus in order to do the production justice. Shield said she felt the need to stage a performance of Les Mis at Furman after seeing the musical in London, thinking it would be an opportunity to showcase the university’s musical talent. After working with the crew and cast this semester, Shield reflected on the final production, saying “there was even more talent than expected.”
Amidst tear-jerking scenes of love and betrayal were occasional moments of comic relief, most notably provided by the character Madame Thénardier, played by senior Morgan Voke. While Voke originally auditioned for the role of Cosette, she was later cast as Madame Thénardier, which enabled her to embody a character that she called “larger than life.” Voke’s performance was certainly just that. She immediately captured the audience’s attention upon her entrance. Through her stunning vocal performance and hilariously witty acting, Voke effectively depicted her role and reminded the audience that, while things may not always be merry, you can still enjoy a good laugh.
Equally impressive were the roles of Monsieur Thénardier, Jean Valjean, Javert, Fantine, Marius, and Éponine. Each character displayed the emotional distress in France in the century following the French Revolution. Whether it be finding love, losing love, or fighting for what you love, these actors explored the depths of their talents and abilities, which were demonstrated in the overall performance. It was next to impossible not to feel touched by each and every one of the performers.
The performance on stage was only enhanced by the effective use of lighting, sound, costumes, and props. The lighting and sound effects portrayed each individual scene’s mood. Most memorable were the scenes in which stars were incorporated through the use of a lighted curtain. The costumes, designed by senior Callie Nestleroth, were absolutely stunning, capturing 19th Century France in all its glory. The props added to the smooth transitions and overall accurate portrayal of each scene.
With a full cast, orchestra, and choir, Les Misérables was nothing short of amazing.