Review: Les Misérables: The Arena Spectacular at the ICC

Review by Meg Robinson

If you thought, like I once did, that Les Misérables was just a bunch of sad boys in waistcoats, think again. The Arena Spectacular has landed in Sydney, and it’s a powerful, visually stunning reimagining of one of the most beloved musicals in the world.

Presented in concert format at the ICC Sydney Theatre, this production brings not only the emotional weight of Les Mis, but an impressive spectacle brought to life with inventive staging and design.

The energy walking into the theatre on opening night was electric. The theatre was packed.As I went to find my seat, I heard murmurs through the crowd as people reminisced about past productions, discussing favourite numbers. There was a buzz of excitement and anticipation to see how this version would bring something new to a story that’s loved by so many.

What I first noticed about the production, and what struck me most, was the vocal strength across the entire cast. This is easily one of the most consistent and vocally secure ensembles I’ve ever seen.

Alfie Boe, as Jean Valjean, gave a performance that was both moving and vocally effortless. ‘Bring Him Home’ was a true highlight, you could hear a pin drop after he finished and the audience held a thoughtful silence before applauding.

Shan Ako’s Éponine was a standout and brought warmth, clarity, and strength to the role. Her ‘On My Own’ was stunning, raw and full of yearning. It’s rare to feel such intimacy in a venue this size, but she really nailed it.

Matt Lucas was hilarious as Thénardier, and brought some much needed comic relief with “Master of the House” which was my favourite number of the night. Paired with Helen Walsh covering Madame Thénardier, this duo had fantastic chemistry, bouncing off each other with impeccable timing.

The set design by Matt Kinley is impressive, with parts of the stage constantly shifting and moving, surprising the audience as it transitions into different scenes. The wooden slat-adorned rig morphed into different configurations, bringing to life the barricade, the Thénardier’s establishment and Parisian streets with ease. Lighting design by Paule Constable and Warren Lettton is stellar, magical and really elevates the entire production.

While the music and performances are exceptional, it’s worth noting that this type of concert format relies on the audiences to have an understanding of the plot. Without the traditional staging, it can be a little difficult to follow the storyline if Les Mis is new to you. This version is definitely aimed at and a treat for long-time fans who know and love the show.

That said, the quality of the vocals makes it worth it even if you’re not so familiar with the show. While I am not a huge fan of Les Mis it was an enjoyable night. If you love hearing phenomenal voices deliver iconic songs, this is still definitely worth attending.

For opening night, the audience was treated to something special, with original cast members from various Australian productions of Les Misérables joining the stage alongside the entire company to sing ‘One Day More.’

The cast was joined by, Normie Rowe, the original Valjean from 1987, Philip Quast, iconic as Javert in both the original Australian cast and the legendary 10th Anniversary Concert in London, William Zappa, Thénardier in 1987, Lara Mulcahy, Madame Thénardier in 1997 and 2014, David Campbell, Marius in the 1995 10th Anniversary production, Simon Burke, original Australian Marius from 1987, Scott Irwin, Enjolras in 1995, and Nikki Webster, as Little Cosette in the 1997 run.

It was such a lovely way to end the night, reminding us not only of the show’s legacy, but the generations of performers and audiences who have carried it forward.

Les Misérables: The Arena Spectacular is showing at the ICC Sydney until May 11 before moving on to Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena from May 14 - 25.