Les Miserables in Concert. - video recording reviews

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Jan, 1997 by Robert S. Rothenberg

One of the phenomenons of theatrical history has been the international success of "Les Miserables," the musical version of Victor Hugo's classic novel. The gripping depiction of good vs. evil amidst the swirling events of France's lop student uprising seems to have struck a universal chord, the show being met with acclaim in such unexpected venues as Japan and Israel, as well as virtually all of Europe, and continues to pack them in on Broadway.

In 1995, a concert version of the musical was performed at London's Royal Albert Hall to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the show. This video version of the event will delight those who have seen the musical as well as those who have not. A cast of more than 250 performers is featured, those portraying the main characters arrayed across the stage on chairs in full costume, rising and stepping forward on cue to sing their numbers. Words across the screen set the scene for each song, and major production numbers are portrayed on tape.

Those familiar with the show are aware that it is performed entirely in song, with no spoken dialogue. With much of the lyrics being sung on stage with a blending of many voices, often is difficult to understand all of the words. Thanks to the blessing of videotape, viewers are able to rewind as many times as necessary to get all of the meanings, adding immeasurably to the enjoyment.

The stirring grand finale brings 17 of the stars who have portrayed Jean Valjean onto the stage, each singing in his native language, then joining together in triumphant chorus. The stunning video presentation is ample evidence of why "Les Miz" has thrilled more than 30,000,000 theatergoers in 26 countries around the world.