All photos by Matthew Murphy

Last night’s performance of Les Misérables at the Eccles Theatre was nothing short of spectacular. The cast delivered powerful performances that brought Victor Hugo’s timeless story to life with incredible emotion and energy.

Nick Cartell as Jean Valjean was a tour de force. His portrayal of Valjean’s journey from a hardened convict to a compassionate man was deeply moving. Cartell’s vocal prowess was on full display, particularly in “Bring Him Home,” which left the audience in awe. His ability to convey the internal struggles and ultimate redemption of Valjean was truly remarkable, making his performance one of the highlights of the evening.

Nick Rehberger as Javert provided a compelling contrast to Valjean. His stern and unyielding demeanor was perfectly captured, and his rendition of “Stars” was both haunting and powerful. Rehberger’s performance added a layer of intensity to the production that was palpable. His portrayal of Javert’s relentless pursuit of justice and his eventual downfall was both gripping and tragic, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Randy Jeter as The Bishop of Digne brought a sense of warmth and kindness to the stage. His brief but impactful role set the tone for Valjean’s transformation, and Jeter’s performance was heartfelt and sincere. The Bishop’s act of mercy and compassion towards Valjean was beautifully portrayed, highlighting the themes of forgiveness and redemption that are central to the story.

Lindsay Heather Pearce as Fantine delivered a heartbreaking performance. Her rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” was filled with raw emotion, capturing the despair and hope of her character. Pearce’s portrayal was both poignant and memorable, as she conveyed Fantine’s tragic descent with grace and vulnerability. Her performance left the audience deeply moved and empathetic towards Fantine’s plight.

Victoria Huston-Elem and Matt Crowle as Madame Thenardier and Thenardier were fantastic. Their impeccable timing and chemistry brought much-needed comic relief to the production. Their performances were lively and entertaining, making them a standout duo. The Thenardiers’ antics and schemes provided a welcome contrast to the more serious moments of the show, and their dynamic presence on stage was a delight to watch.

Mya Rena Hunter as Eponine was captivating. Her portrayal of unrequited love was beautifully conveyed, and her performance of “On My Own” was both powerful and touching. Hunter’s emotional depth added a layer of complexity to her character, making Eponine’s struggles and sacrifices all the more poignant. Her performance resonated with the audience, evoking both sympathy and admiration.

Delaney Guyer as Cosette brought innocence and grace to the role. Her chemistry with the other characters, particularly Jake David Smith as Marius, was believable and endearing. Guyer’s performance was sweet and genuine, adding to the overall charm of the production. Her portrayal of Cosette’s journey from a mistreated child to a young woman in love was both heartwarming and inspiring. Guyer and Smith vocally brought a sweet tenderness to this production.

Christian Mark Gibbs as Enjolras was a standout performer. His commanding presence and powerful vocals in “Do You Hear the People Sing?” were truly inspiring. Gibbs’ portrayal of the passionate revolutionary leader was both dynamic and compelling, making him a highlight of the evening. His performance captured the fervor and determination of Enjolras, rallying both the characters on stage and the audience with his powerful delivery.

The costumes and sets were stunning, transporting the audience to 19th-century France. The attention to detail in the costumes added authenticity to the characters, while the sets provided a rich and immersive backdrop for the story. The intricate designs and period-accurate attire enhanced the visual experience, making the world of Les Misérables come alive on stage.

The orchestra was exceptional, delivering a flawless performance that enhanced the emotional impact of the musical numbers. The music, conducted with precision and passion, underscored the drama and heightened the intensity of the scenes. The seamless integration of the orchestra with the vocal performances created a harmonious and captivating auditory experience.

Overall, the production was a triumph. The cast’s incredible performances, combined with the impressive costumes, sets, and orchestra, made for an unforgettable evening. Les Misérables at the Eccles Theatre was a powerful and moving experience that left the audience deeply moved and thoroughly entertained. This production is a testament to the enduring power of Les Misérables and its ability to resonate with audiences across generations.

Tickets for Les Misérables, running at Salt Lake City’s Eccles Theater, Feb 26 – Mar 15, 2025 are available online at Broadway-at-the-Eccles.com, at the Eccles Box Office or by calling ArtTix at 801.355.ARTS (2787). For more information, please visit Broadway-at-the-Eccles.com