Your complete guide to Les Miserables on West End

Lose yourself in a world of passion, love, sacrifice, revolution, and redemption in this timeless masterpiece that has charmed audiences across the globe. The story follows Jean Valjean, a former convict in 19th-century France who hopes to regain what he has lost. Backdropped by unforgettable soaring melodies and breathtaking stagecraft with stunning performances and a moving story at the forefront, this musical at London's Sondheim Theatre is a feast for all the senses.

What is the story of Les Misérables in London?

After stealing a loaf of bread for his sister's starving child, Jean Valjean is imprisoned for 19 years and released in 1815. When a bishop inspires him with a tremendous act of mercy, Valjean breaks his parole, dons a disguise, and adopts an orphan named Cosette in hopes of starting his life anew. Life does not always go as planned, however, and Valjean learns a powerful lesson of sacrifice and redemption through tough choices n one should ever have to make.

Is Les Misérables based on a true story?

Playwright Victor Hugo was inspired by real events when he created Les Misérables, including watching a man who stole a loaf of bread be arrested as a mother and daughter watched on. Jean Valjean was also loosely based on the ex-convict Eugène François Vidocq, who went on to become a philanthropist, head an undercover police unit, and eventually found France's first private detective agency.

What is the main message of Les Misérables?

The main theme of the musical is social justice and injustice. Several of the characters in this novel are victims of injustice whose cries for fair trial or recompense go unheard. The traditional channels fail them, despite their best efforts. Jean Valjean, as a former convict, is scorned because of his mistakes, even when his grand crime is merely the theft of a loaf of bread to feed a starving child. The deeply gut-wrenching narrative does have another, perhaps greater theme, however: that even in adversity, the human soul is capable of great kindness and forgiveness.

Is Les Misérables still on in London?

Cameron Mackintosh's production has played in London for over 30 years and is still going strong. Originally staged at the Barbican Centre, it transferred to the Sondheim Theatre in 2004, where it still plays with its run extended through March 29, 2025.

Who is the new cast of Les Misérables in London?

The London production has seen a few lineup changes through its run with the latest one including Ian McIntosh as Jean Valjean, Jacob Dachtler as Marius, Robson Broad as Enjolras, and Annabelle Aquino as Cosette.

What are the main songs in Les Misérables?

The production has notable tracks like:

• The prologues: "Work Song," "Valjean Arrested/Valjean Forgiven," and "What Have I Done?"
• "At the End of the Day"
• "In My Life"
• "Castle on a Cloud"
• "A Heart Full of Love"

The biggest song to come out of Les Misérables, however, is most certainly "I Dreamed a Dream" a solo from Fantine during the first act that transcended the show and has found popularity even amongst those who have never watched it.

Why is Les Misérables so famous?

The themes of Les Misérables are extremely relatable. The downtrodden lower class, the struggles against an unjust society, the fight for one's rights, and the arcs of forgiveness and redemption are all deeply personal, which positions this as a story that most audiences would find themselves immersed in. Paired with excellent music and powerful performances, it's easy to see why it became as much a fan favorite as a critically acclaimed show. The musical, adapted in 1980 by Alain Boublil, who wrote the book and the lyrics, and Claude-Michel Schönberg, who wrote the music, won Best Musical at the 1987 Tony Awards. It is widely regarded as one of the best musicals of all time.

How long is Les Misérables in London?

The show runs for approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, with one intermission.

Fun facts about Les Misérables

• Despite its current acclaim, the musical originally opened to bad reviews in 1985 from critics. Audiences loved it, though, and within 24 hours they made sure their love was heard through a whopping 5,000 tickets in sales.
• The musical has been translated into 21 languages, making it a certified globally renowned show.
• The London stage production features impressive designs, including a revolving stage for scene transitions.
• Composer Giacomo Puccini was originally approached to adapt Les Misérables into an opera, but he declined believing it would be unsuitable for the stage. Lyricist Alan Boublil, however, inspired by the London revival of Oliver!, decided to give it a go, leading to the musical's existence.

Head on down to London's Sondheim Theatre for a showing of the critically acclaimed musical, Les Misérables.