Les Misérables Returns to New York as Arena Concert

Come September, “Les Misérables,” a defining musical of the late 20th century, will have been absent from Broadway for nearly ten years. Yet, Cameron Mackintosh has revived this classic, bringing the story of Prisoner 24601 back to audiences worldwide, including a stop at Radio City Music Hall in New York.

The production includes beloved characters such as Jean Valjean, Javert, Fantine, and Éponine, along with a cast portraying the passionate student revolutionaries. For fans across the United States, “Les Misérables” has a recognizable prologue followed by iconic Claude-Michel Schönberg chords, offering a thrill each time.

The show evokes a powerful response, evidenced by the excitement of an audience gathered not just to see, but to experience “Les Misérables: The Arena Concert Spectacular.”

This event is a unique experience compared to Broadway, hosting more than 6,000 attendees at a time. Adapted from various British concert versions, this tour is designed for larger crowds and has traveled worldwide. Mackintosh also plans to bring this performance to other cities, including Chicago.

The concert does not provide a full theatrical performance. While some intimacy is lost, the show gains with a larger orchestra, multiple casting options ensuring peak vocal performances, and a grander scale fitting a novel of monumental length and depth. The compelling narrative explores personal and political change, offering comfort about the world moving forward.

The production benefits from talents like Alfie Boe as Jean Valjean, who brings both vocal strength and the needed maturity to the role. Bradley Jaden’s portrayal of Javert complements Boe’s performance. Samantha Barks shines as Fantine, delivering the character’s depth of sadness and worry.

This mode of performance, with a brief run in an expansive venue, focuses on the music supported by minimal costume pieces and staging. Few musicals could bear such scrutiny, yet “Les Misérables,” performed entirely through song, excels in this format.

Returning fans will recognize familiar voices and experience the opera’s emotional resonance. The concert atmosphere, with its gathering of thousands, adds to the shared enjoyment and passionate engagement with Hugo’s timeless tale.

Performances run through August 9 at Radio City Music Hall in New York. Tickets and information are available at nyc.lesmis.com.

Chris Jones is a Tribune critic. Contact at [email protected].