Whitney and I saw a touring company production of Les Miserables on Sunday night. Neither of us had seen it (although I vaguely remember a movie version in the 70's but not a musical). We were looking forward to it since we have heard so many good comments and we love musicals.
Unfortunately neither of us cared for it. There was a combination of factors that made it difficult to watch. Our seats were near the back of the theater. That normally isn't a problem, even in a big theater. However the lightning/set designer for the show decided that everything should be in low light to simulate the lighting I guess from the early 1800's. I understand the concept but they really should have sat in the back of the theater and realized that everyone was squinting to try and figure out what they were seeing. I can't tell you the number of times we lost someone in the shadows who was a main character. We could hear them just not know who they were.
Second we weren't prepared for the show to be entirely in song. Not a bad thing, just not what we expected.
None of the actors were outstanding. For a touring company I expected a better. Some of the voices were off. I understand that we were the last show but for the price we paid I expected to be wowed.
We decided that we don't need to see the movie when it comes out in December.
