We watched Les Miserables World Tour Manila 2026 on opening night (January 20) and it was definitely SPELLBINDING!
Les Miserables, being one of the most popular musical which has been around for decades can really make one sing along with the performers especially during 'Do You Hear The People Sing,' 'I Dreamed A Dream,' and 'Master of The House.' Of course, theatre etiquette won't allow us to do that since it can distract not just the cast (if you sing really, really loud) but your seatmate.
The stage set-up was also amazing and I think it would be cool to see it up-close and have an intimate moment being 'in' Les Mis! Lights and sounds were also top-notch and every one seems happy after the performance (from orchestra seats all the way up in the upper balcony). Really, really amazing lights and sound effects.
And right on cue (well, 8:02PM and without any announcement), the orchestra began playing the 'Work Song,' with Jean Valjean and the prisoners. It was a bit underwhelming though, I was expecting a heightened auditory beginning. But apart from that and an off-key hiccup from the orchestra during the second act, every thing falls into its proper place as a beloved musical.
Geronimo Rauch as Jean Valjean gave a commanding performance of being kind, morally upright and a loving 'father' to Cosette. His vulnerability to help and protect makes him an easy target of what ills society. It was a heartbreaking end, but eventually he found the peace that he desired the most.
Jeremy Secomb breathes life to Javert perfectly. Being the most misunderstood character in Les Miserables, how does one draw the line between what you believe in, and what you know in your heart .
And what can I say about Rachelle Ann Go as Fantine? She's amazing! Her rendition of 'I Dreamed A Dream' was so lamentable that I want to hug her. Goosebump moment there!
I love the song- 'Castle On A Cloud' and Little Cosette gave a soul-stirring performance. I think it was Bianca Estacio who performed during the opening night.
Eponine, like Javert, was another crowd favorite. Portrayed by Emily Bautista, Eponine's happiness and tragedy was unrequited love. Her 'A Little Fall of Rain,' pierces the heart.
Will Callan as the playful and optimistic Marius, his character took a rollercoaster ride from falling in-love, then suddenly found himself all grown up and losing those he hold dear. It was pure agony when he sang- 'Empty Chairs at Empty Tables.'
Cosette's passage from an orphan to a beloved foster child of Jean Valjean gave her the excuse to grow up in a sheltered upbringing and Lulu-Mae Pears gave justice to that. Her beautiful soprano voice lends purity and soul especially when she sang 'A Heart Full of Love,' with Marius.
Now on to the fun part- Red Conception and Lea Salonga, the Thenardier duo, are definitely scene stealers with their bawdy and robust performance. It's refreshing to watch Lea Salonga transition from protagonist to antagonist roles. And what a delightful voice she has!
Overall, it was a surreal experience to watch Les Miserables World Tour Manila 2026.
0 comments:
Post a Comment