Lakota West High School's LES MISERABLES: SCHOOL EDITION

 Feuiliy (senior Nathan Mathes) and Enjolras (senior Neel Saggi) inspire their fellow revolutionaries during Lakota West High School’s spring musical, Les Misérables: School Edition. Photo courtesy of Jim Kershaw. 

Review by Caroline Lovelace, Walnut Hills High School Critic Team

A lone battle drum rhythmically struck. The minor ring of imposing horns joined the fight, piercing through the fog. It was France, 1832—and Lakota West High School was marching with a driving and militant spirit through their monumental production of the challenging Les Misérables: School Edition.

Adapted from Victor Hugo's epic novel, Les Misérables is a majestic musical spectacle, featuring a completely sung-through narrative with iconic motifs and a harrowing plot. Against a backdrop of political turmoil, the show follows the tenacious Jean Valjean, seeking personal reform as he builds a life of heroic altruism. Over the course of nearly two decades, lovers pine and the riotous unrest rages on, but through the characters' dynamic relationships, one inspiring fact remains steadfast: Les Misérables finds an inspiring sense of camaraderie and hope in the darkest of corners.

Les Misérables: School Edition was a moving exhibition of deeply vulnerable performances, complete with polished battle sequences, remarkably mature vocals, and not one, but two standing ovations.

Zander Brewer's interpretation of Jean Valjean was sensational. He conquered Valjean's colossal range, both in terms of vocals and age development, with finesse. Brewer's incredible mastery of expression through song was marked by impressive specificity of intention throughout Valjean's inspiring yet challenging to navigate character arc. He displayed remarkable stamina, exemplifying the tenacity of the role from start to finish, making for a truly gallant performance. Additionally, Natalie Hartman's Fantine displayed an admirable vulnerability, especially during her gut-wrenching death, which set the poignant tone of the show.

Another phenomenal performance was Julia Kershaw as Eponine. Kershaw's interpretation of the resilient revolutionary was beautifully nuanced in both intention and vocal dynamics. She exhibited a compelling softness in more introspective moments and showcased her immense power when called upon. Always in Eponine's gaze was Hagan Bright as the yearning Marius. Bright's vocals were simply gorgeous and captured the romantic and intrepid nature of Marius's desires. His chemistry with his beloved friend Eponine was incredibly engaging.

Les Misérables: School Edition is an extensive and challenging task, but under the command of Rebecca Bacu's stage management, the show's momentum was an unstoppable and powerful force. With the help of Kenedy Hudson, Vivian Sims, and Jillian Meents's stage crew, the show flowed strikingly well and remained engaging throughout. Bacu's influence was widespread, as she implemented her expertise on many technical elements of the show. Also aiding the show's driving momentum was the Lakota West Orchestra—the scaffolding and beating heart of a truly top-notch musical performance. The orchestra moved with the vocalists extremely well, exhibiting impressive stamina by playing throughout the entire show.

Lakota West High School's indomitable force of a musical masterpiece was a passionate display and a truly evocative work of art. It showed the power of nuanced tragedy in theatre and instilled an insurgent atmosphere throughout every breath of the powerful Les Misérables: School Edition.

Jean Valjean, portrayed by senior Zander Brewer, prays for Marius to survive the impending fight during Lakota West High School’s spring musical, Les Misérables: School Edition. Photo courtesy of Jim Kershaw.

Review by Ava Pursley, Loveland High School Critic Team

Set in the streets of 1800s Paris, Lakota West High School's invigorating production of Les Misérables: School Edition explored themes of wrongdoing and redemption, despair and hope, and the powerful love that makes it all worth fighting for.

Originally written in French, Les Misérables' first English performance was in the West End in 1985. It has since become the longest-running musical in the West End, along with winning Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, and Best Original Score. The plot of the musical epic centers around the life of Jean Valjean, a thief who breaks his parole and is given a second chance at life in the midst of a French revolution.

Overall, Lakota West's production was a breathtaking experience. Everything from the cast's powerful vocals to the stage crew's smooth transitions and the orchestra's backing strength created a performance that beautifully ebbed and flowed throughout its emotional moments.

Jean Valjean is the heart of the show, as audiences spend several hours watching his life transform when he is shown an incredible act of mercy and works to show that same kindness to those around him. Zander Brewer faced the vocal and emotional challenge of this demanding role with heart and professionalism. Specifically, Brewer's heart-wrenching performance of "Bring Him Home" showcased his fantastic vocal control along with his moving portrayal of Valjean's selflessness.

A truly remarkable musical features many outstanding supporting actors, and Les Misérables certainly delivered. Marius, played by Hagan Bright, had both vocal finesse and acting range as he went on a journey of love and loss. "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" was a truly heartbreaking moment as Marius reminisced on all of his comrades lost in battle. Additionally, Julia Kershaw's performance as Éponine was devastating as the character went from a girl who lost her love to another to a girl who lost her life at the barricade. Her strong performance during "On My Own" solidified her as a powerful emotional anchor of the story.

Les Misérables could not have been what it was without its fantastic technical elements. Its stage crew, consisting of Rebecca Bacu, Kenedy Hudson, Vivian Sims, and Jillian Meents, ensured transitions were smooth and did not disrupt the story being told. Stage manager Bacu also oversaw parts of lights, sound, special effects, and props, all of which helped immerse the audience into the setting of a revolutionary Paris, France. Furthermore, the Lakota West Orchestra approached each song with incredible musicality and precision. Despite being placed behind the stage, the orchestra was able to move with the singers, allowing soloists to showcase great emotion in their songs.

The audience's standing ovation at the end of the musical's act one finale, One Day More, represents Lakota West's engaging and thought-provoking production about not letting your past define who you are and choosing love even in the darkest of times.

The ensemble sings of the perils, injustices and hopes found At the End of the Day during Lakota West High School’s spring musical, Les Misérables: School Edition. Photo courtesy of Jim Kershaw.

Review by Ella Adams, Mercy McAuley High School Critic Team

As shouts rang out from the streets of Paris and a red flag rose above the barricade, Lakota West High School's stage came alive with rebellion. Through dedication and compelling performances, the cast and crew of Les Misérables: School Edition gave a poignant example of how compassion and courage can make change.

Based on Victor Hugo's novel, Les Misérables: School Edition is a musical set in early 19th-century France. It follows Jean Valjean, who begins a new life after serving 19 years of prison labor for stealing. While searching for redemption, Valjean is constantly pursued by the relentless Javert. With the backdrop of a society crushed by political unrest and united through revolution, Jean Valjean's journey is a powerful story of sacrifice and moral struggle.

Les Misérables: School Edition is full of complicated numbers and mature themes, but the cast and crew rose to the challenge gracefully. From each emotionally charged scene to meticulously planned backstage work, Lakota West High School crafted a stunning production.

As Jean Valjean, Zander Brewer took on a demanding role flawlessly. Brewer equally showcased his character's gentleness and bitterness, creating a beautifully multifaceted portrayal. In addition, Brewer tackled the role's numerous songs with powerhouse vocals, especially shining in his memorable rendition of "Bring Him Home." Similarly, Natalie Hartman gave an utterly captivating depiction of Fantine. Hartman's use of body language and facial expressions displayed her character's decline, from her hopeful beginning to haunting end.

Hagan Bright, who played Marius, skillfully brought his character's development to life. From his innocence as his journey begins, through the moment disaster strikes and his character falls into despair, Bright showcased a wide range of emotions in his dynamic performance. Starkly contrasting the musical's tragic aspects, Jordan Wells and Bella Rosato provided comedic relief as Thenardier and Madame Thenardier. This duo's chemistry and utilization of physical comedy made them stand out in songs such as "Master of the House," leaving the audience in constant laughter.

Les Misérables: School Edition is a complex musical, requiring various scene changes and settings. Stage manager Rebecca Bacu, as well as Kennedy Hudson, Vivian Sims, and Jillian Meents, who led the stage crew, ensured precise cues and smooth transitions which never interrupted the show. Meanwhile, Lakota West High School's Orchestra played the show's score with impeccable timing, in sync with the cast and one another. Their impressive musical abilities gave liveliness to each song, heightening the audience's listening experience.

From the rise of the curtain to the final battle, Lakota West High School created a heartfelt and moving production. Through their commitment and passion, the cast and crew of Les Misérables: School Edition proved themselves to be stars in their multitudes.

Marius, portrayed by senior Hagan Bright, stirs up the courage to talk to Cosette, portrayed by senior Sophie Hard, during Lakota West High School’s spring musical, Les Misérables: School Edition. Photo courtesy of Jim Kershaw. 

Excerpts From Other Top Reviews

"Hagan Bright, who played Marius, and Sophie Hard, who played Cosette, displayed raw emotion and remarkable vocals. Their voices melted together, and they showed the love Marius and Cosette share beautifully. Others, such as Bella Rosato and Jordan Wells, brought comedic relief and undying energy through their characters, Madame Thenardier and Thenardier. Lastly, Julia Kershaw, who played Eponine, dominated the stage in 'On My Own' and handled Eponine's death with abundant grace."

-Stina Gulbrandson, Milford High School Critic Team

"Charging into battle were the insurgent ABC Student Ensemble. Together, the schoolboys created a unified brotherhood while maintaining their own distinct characters. One standout performance was Neel Saggi as the valiant Enjolras. Saggi truly embodied the courageous and revolutionary spirit of the character, which was marked by impressive vocal strength and tone."

-Adelaide Linser, Walnut Hills High School Critic Team

"Another excellent performance in the show was that of Jordan Wells as Thenardier. His animated physicality, as well as his hilarious vocal choices, brought much-needed comedic relief to a relatively dark show. Hagan Bright as Marius was a highlight of the show. Bright's heartfelt and passionate delivery made for a very compelling performance that showed Marius' character extremely accurately."

-Adah Mosher, Walnut Hills High School Critic Team

"Lakota West's technical elements were executed with a similar level of range, supporting the cast excellently. The most notable of these was the precision of the stage management. The crew, led by stage managers Rebecca Bacu, Kenedy Hudson, Vivian Sims, and Jillian Meents, coordinated countless seamless transitions that supported the tale every step of the way. The flawless movement, spinning set pieces, the timing of the projections, and the flow of the massive ensemble ensured that the pacing was never a question in the audience's minds. Boasting a rich, symphonic sound, the Lakota West Orchestra supported the story in an equally compelling way. The music was incredibly accurate to the original tracks and fit the somber nature of the show. Both crews' work was admirable and couldn't be described as anything less than complete."

-Brady Eastep, Milford High School Critic Team

"The supporting cast of the show was incredibly important to the plot and carried each of the subplots with as much importance as the main one. Within the realm of vocals, Cosette, played by Sophie Hard, had an enriching voice which notably mixed perfectly during the duets between her and Marius, played by Hagan Bright. Hard's solos stood out as her commanding tone was enthralling and fit perfectly with her portrayal of Cosette. Both Bella Rosato as Madame Thénardier and her scene partner, Jordan Wells as Thénardier, added a layer of rompishness to the more brooding story."

-Cecilia Rasmussen, Mariemont High School Critic Team

"A fundamental aspect of the show's success was the precise work of stage managers Rebecca Bacu, Kenedy Hudson, Vivian Sims, and Jillian Meents. As a team, they coordinated lists for the fly system, props, and microphones while calling cues for light and sound. While they expressed facing difficulties in dealing with the organization of 12 different overarching sets, the execution of scene changes was swift and flawless. The hard work of Bacu, Hudson, Sims, and Meents produced a smooth pace and simmer of excitement as each location switched to the next."

-Norah Shadwell, Highlands High School Critic Team

"Lakota West put on a simply brilliant production, with each aspect coming together to make every last moment from beginning to end land just right. Each talented actor and brilliant technical spectacle worked in harmony to make every bit of heartbreak, loss, and adrenaline-pumping tension shine on the stage."

-Zachary Stucker, Walnut Hills High School Critic Team