A Review

The Final Tour

By R. J. Donovan

Presented by Cameron Mackintosh and based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel, "Les Miserables" is the show that just keeps spinning. Literally.

Winner of eight 1987 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, "Les Miserables" is written by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg. Music is by Claude-Michel Schönberg, lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer and original French text by Alain Boublil and Jean-Marc Natel. The production is directed by John Caird and Trevor Nunn.

Heavily touted as being on its final, farewell, "this-is-it-so-don't-miss-out" tour, "Les Miz" has returned for a two week run at Boston's Opera House.

(It was simultaneously announced that the show would re-open on Broadway for a six month run later this year.)

The epic story of Jean Valjean is nothing if not sweeping. It carries us from Valjean's wrongful 19-year imprisonment for stealing a loaf of bread to his final breath.

Along the way, he turns into a model citizen, becomes Mayor, runs a factory, takes on the responsibility of raising an orphan, fights with revolutionaries and saves the life of the young man who will become his son-in-law -- all while running from the police inspector with whom he tangled in the first place.

Filled with glorious music and powerful voices, the show retains its majesty -- a remarkable achievement after 17 years on the road..

At the center of the story, as well as the cast, is tenor Randall Keith as Valjean. With a glorious singing voice that soars to the rafters in "Who Am I" only to swirl to a pin-spot in the emotional "Bring Him Home" prayer, Keith has played Boston before. And he's as good as ever.

The show has become a series of musical high points from "I Dreamed A Dream," to "Do You Hear The People Sing," "On My Own," "Empty Chairs" and of course, the rousing "One Day More."

Stand outs in the cast include Adam Jacobs as Marius, Victor Wallace as Enjolras and Melissa Lyons as Eponine.

While the production is as clean and fresh as ever, a few of the lighting cues seemed sluggish on Opening Night. It was a distraction that often made it hard to connect with the story. And with "Les Miz," it's essential that you connect.

Since opening in London in the late 80s, "Les Miserables" has captured audiences around the globe. With its massive barricade and the ever-spinning revolve, it's doubtful that any future productions will be able to match the look and feeling of the original staging. So see it now, before the final curtain.

"Les Miserables " is at The Opera House, 539 Washington Street, through February 26 . For information, call 617-931-2787.

Photos: Joan Marcus

-- OnStage Boston

02/22/06