Broadbrook Opera House, Broadbrook, CT
through May18, 2014
by Shera Cohen
How many times can one see “Les Miserables”? There can be
many answers, one being “never enough” and another “four times.” Yes, audiences
in the Pioneer Valley had the opportunity to enjoy four community theatre
productions during the 2013/14 season. This is a very big musical, and the
locals took on the task of mounting each “Les Miz” brilliantly.
Broadbrook (BB) is the latest and last of the quartet. Where
to begin with the accolades? Setting aside kudos to Victor Hugo and to those
who wrote the original musical, we jump to BB’s leaders: Producer Moonyean
Field (who knew BB had the talent to face this challenge), Director Sharon
FitzHenry (who doubled and tripled as set and lighting designer), and Music
Director Bill Martin (who lead his 4-piece band to sound like a full
orchestra). These musicians are ever-present, keeping the momentum of every
action taken and every syllable sung.
Let’s assume that every reader knows this story spanning
several decades in 19th century France. The simplistic staging of large
multi-purpose scaffolding (as a courtroom, gate, stairs, streets, sewer)
against a pure black backdrop, accentuated by hauntingly imprinted shadows
creates the mood and human psyche of the important characters.
Luis Manzi steps into the body, mind, and heart of our sad
hero Jean Valjean. A community theatre stalwart, Manzi has shined in dramas and
comedies. Valjean, however, is the character he was meant to become. His
signature piece, “Bring Him Home,” is equally beautiful as it is difficult.
Manzi nails it.
Valjean’s nemisis Javert, portrayed by Tim Reilly, is given
two exquisite songs -- “Stars” and “Javert’s Suicide.” Reilly is a singer who
can act, looks like Russell Crowe with a far superior voice. The death scene
has been directed in various ways; Broadbrook literally takes a unique and
creative leap of faith.
The women of this “Les Miz” are strong in character and
voice, especially Gabrielle Carrubba as Eponine, whose “On My Own” is poignant
and rich. Kendra Scott as Fantine sings a wrenching and beautiful “I Dreamed a
Dream.” Kaytlyn Vandeloecht as Cosette brings such innocence and love to “In My
Life.”
There’s more, much more -- the talented chorus, the
sympathetic young actors, seamless scene changes, spectacle, the furling red
flag, and “One Day More.”
