Having seen the musical
LES MIZ at least half a dozen times, I was able to follow the story in this nearly
3-hour updated version of Victor Hugo’s epic novel. My companion however was
confused. Although the action is set in 1936, and there are Gershwin songs, the sensibility is clearly 1832.
There are all the familiar scenes: single-mom
Fantine fired from her job; Jean Valjean vowing to find her child; the nasty Thénardiers
even nastier than ever; Javert the relentless policeman-hunter; the rescue of
Little Cosette; the love story of Marius and Cosette; the heartbreak of courageous
Eponine, and the Student Revolt. However, when Hitler and the Nazi’s keep
popping in, as if there is some mysterious parallel here, and the leader of the
Resistance wears a yellow star, it becomes preposterous.
It’s an ambitious project,
bravely performed by a truly fine cast: George Almond, Angel Castellanos, Sophia
Lilinoe Cesario, Savannah Crafton, Eric Geller, Joe Hulser, Ian Hyde, Lonni
Silverman, Ellyn Stern and Donald Wayne. However, with set changes and video
clips it proceeds at a snail’s pace under Jed Alexander’s leisurely direction. If
British author Jonathan Holloway is attempting to parallel the oppressive society
in France in the 19th Century, with the German occupation of World
War II, it doesn’t work.
Produced by Planta Genista.
At Studio/Stage, 520 N. Western Ave, through July 26. Reservations: (213)
453-4901 or www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1654460
Photos by Garth Pillbury.
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