Following the outstanding success of The Phantom of the Opera in 2018, the South West Opera Company (Inc.) (SWOC) and the Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre (BREC) are proud to work together once again to present a new production of the world-wide phenomenon, Boublil and Schönberg’s Les Misérables at BREC this September.
The 70+ South West cast and crew are excited to bring the timeless classic to a new generation. The production also features a live orchestra of local professional musicians under the musical direction of SWOC’s Marguerite Monagle.
Set in 19th century France. This epic and uplifting story tells of adversity, redemption, sacrifice, passion, greed, justice, unrequited love and broken dreams. A timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit, Les Misérables has become one the most celebrated and recognised musicals in theatrical history.
When asked why the company chose to present a theatrical production during such challenging times, SWOC Producer, Nerida Mangano commented that “yes, it is a risk but we believe the people of the South West are ready to get out and enjoy some high quality live entertainment again”. “The show has something for everyone and the talent of the people who have been giving their all in rehearsals for the past couple of months must be seen – please come and support them, you won’t be disappointed”.
Victor Hugo’s novel Les Misérables sets the scene and the story for this enduringly popular show, but it is Boublil’s captivating music, with Kretzmer’s remarkable lyrics that make this a truly great musical. Come and hear it all performed by South West talent, including I Dreamed A Dream, On My Own, Stars, Bring Him Home, One Day More, and Do You Hear the People Sing.
Among the talent is Busselton locals Rob Hill who has been cast as Thenardier, Eden Coffey who has been cast as Young Cosette and Mary-Ellen Sutherland-Horton.
Rob Hill who has been in all 3 of the SWOC productions said “To be able to be part of a show with such depth and emotion is a truly unique experience. Without a doubt, Les Mis, in my opinion, is the best piece of musical theatre ever written and an experience that all theatre goers and those who may not have seen live theatre before, just should not miss.”
9 year old Eden Coffey said “I am so excited to be in Les Misérables, because I am the youngest cast member and it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be little Cosette. It’s been a fantastic experience so far, and I have enjoyed the rehearsals. Everybody should come and see the show. There’s funny bits and sad bits, something for everybody, and the cast is so talented.”
Production Choreographer and ensemble member and Mary-Ellen Sutherland-Horton said “SWOC has always received fabulous support from the community. I’d encourage the public to come to Les Misérables as it’s a show everyone can enjoy, and of course it’s wonderful to support the amazing talent we have here in the South West. We have all been a little starved of the Arts for obvious reasons, so to have a quality production like Les Miserable to see is an opportunity to be seized.”
Les Misérables will be at BREC performing 6 shows from 11 September to 18 September.
