Les Mis Coming to Simsbury High School

Submitted release  

An all-student cast will present Les Misérables, an epic musical that has touched the hearts of people around the world.  The show will be performed on consecutive weekends, Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 and Feb. 7 to 9, in the school's auditorium at 34 Farms Village Road in Simsbury. The Friday and Saturday performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. The Sunday shows will begin at 2 p.m.

Based on Victor Hugo’s novel, this dramatic and ultimately uplifting tale is set in 19th century France and chronicles the trials and tribulations of former prisoner Jean Valjean, who becomes a force for good in the world, but cannot escape his criminal past.  The musical became an international sensation after first opening in London in 1985, and then on Broadway two years later where it won eight Tony awards, including Best Musical and Best Original Score.  The collection of winning musical numbers includes “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” and “Do you Hear the People Sing?” 

Dr. Stuart Younse serves as the Artistic Director.  

“Choosing to produce Les Misérables at Simsbury High School is a challenging project to say the least,” he says. “But, like the people that we sing about, we are learning to take an epic project, break it into manageable and obtainable parts, and slowly realize our dream.  Learning to dream is important but learning how to make a dream become reality is critical.” 

Other adult creative contributors to the production are Kate Morran (Assistant Director / Choreographer), Robert Tomasulo (Vocal Music Director), Noah Blocker-Glynn (Orchestral Director), Solveig Pflueger (Costume Design), Timothy Reed (Lighting Designer), Michael Hunter (Set Design), Kiley Hoey (Technical Direction), Karen Reid (Make-up / Hair Design), Angela Griffin (Producer) and Carole Twohig (Associate Producer). 

Playing lead parts in the show are Simsbury High School students Nils Hallen (Jean Valjean), Doug Barnard (Javert), Jessica Pomeroy (Fantine), Jack Sullivan (Marius), Emily Bautista (Eponine), Kelly Eustis (Cosette), Jessica Rosenthal (Little Cosette), Tucker Salls (Thenardier), Rachel Sennott (Madame Thenardier), and Brian Hanshaw (Gavroche).  

Dr. Younse explains, “Through producing Les Misérables, we hope to help students learn to look to history to inform the future.  Those that have come before us have learned, through experience, how to make life better.  This is important for students to learn.  Understanding the lessons of history and literature helps to makes for a brighter future.” 

Tickets for Les Misérables are reserved seating, a change from previous years.  Tickets are $12 for senior citizens and students and $15 for adults.    Tickets can be purchased by going to the school’s website, www.simsbury.k12.ct.us, and clicking on the “Les Misérables” icon.  Tickets will also be available for sale in the lobby of the high school 45 minutes before each show on a first come first served basis.  Large groups, or anyone needing assistance, may call (860) 651-0451 x991 and leave a message.

Simsbury High School’s musicals have the distinguished reputation for high production value and high entertainment value.  This year’s Les Mis will be no exception.  Dr. Younse expects a record number of people to come and enjoy Les Misérables, and to take something away, as well.  “Our hope is that the audience leaves our production of Les Misérables uplifted and reminded that, in the face of adversity, there is always hope.”