[21 July 2019] Life is full of surprises, thankfully often of the positive kind.
The production of Les Misérables by the combined Warrnambool Theatre Company and Holiday Actors is one of these. A triumphant spectacle of raw talent polished to excellence. So many cogs in the wheel, so many hours, so much passion.
Nelson Mandela believed in unification through sport, he should have added the arts.
My thankyou to the magic makers of Warrnambool:
Stars/ In your multitudes/ Scarce to be counted/ Filling the darkness/ With order and light.
My universe was chock-a-block with stars last night.
Opening night left me overwhelmed, speechless, stunned. One of the world’s greatest musicals performed by amateurs to the standard of a professional company? I was entirely blown away.
Flawless direction, brilliant orchestra, spot on casting, beautiful solos, impressive ensemble singing, immaculate diction, gorgeous costumes, exquisite lighting, superb set, fine choreography, clever makeup, slick scene changes, glorious and maintained energy on top of credible character development.
The many subtle musical moments had me sobbing in my chair.
Magnificent cast and crew, you were not silent, you were sure. You held up the mirror.
You are the sentinels/ Keeping watch in the night.
We thank you.