The reviews are in for Loreto College’s latest production of Les Misérables: An electrifying, heartfelt triumph of youth theatre.
read the full review below
Directed and produced by the college’s Head of Performing Arts Danny Price, with musical direction from Head of Music David Lloyd‑Mostyn, this stripped‑back, emotionally driven interpretation proves that ambition, when paired with talent and discipline, can result in a genuinely unforgettable night at the theatre.
Rather than relying on elaborate sets, this interpretation embraces simplicity: clean, uncluttered staging, evocative lighting and minimal props that allow the music and storytelling to take full command.
At the heart of the performance is Michael Yakubu as Valjean. His rich vocals and emotional clarity carry the character’s journey with extraordinary maturity, from the defiant anguish of “Who Am I?” to the tender, aching simplicity of the finale. Opposite him, Charlie Morley delivers a steely, superbly controlled Javert, capturing the inspector’s rigid moral code with nuance and a powerful vocal presence.
The production’s emotional centre is strengthened by Suzie Ford’s deeply moving Fantine, whose “I Dreamed a Dream” becomes one of the evening’s most quietly devastating moments. Martha Morris‑Clarke, as Éponine, brings raw honesty and unforced vulnerability; “On My Own” is delivered with heartfelt precision. Caetano Pascoalato‑Fothergill offers an earnest, compelling Marius, while Madeleine Hampson gives Cosette warmth and a bright, lyrical soprano.
The student revolutionaries — strikingly led by Maria Sanderson’s charismatic Enjolras — form one of the show’s strongest ensembles. Their barricade scenes are thrillingly energised, sung with conviction. Meanwhile, Amie Auton and Olive Broom revel in the grotesque comedy of the Thénardiers, balancing mischief and menace with effortless timing.
What truly elevates this production, however, is the sense of collective purpose. From the chain gang to the streets of Paris, the ensemble work is consistently tight, musical and fully engaged. The musicians, too, deserve special praise. Under Lloyd‑Mostyn’s assured leadership, the band performs with richness and accuracy; breathing life into Schönberg’s score with confidence and finesse.
Audience members responded with overwhelming enthusiasm — many describing the performance as “astonishing”, “uplifting”, “joy‑bringing”, “a tour de force” and “ outstanding.”
I congratulate the dedication of the entire creative team, the musicians, the crew, and a cast whose talent and work ethic shone in every scene.
A triumph. Unmissable. And unforgettable.
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