MADISON — Usually, I make it a policy not to review 'youth' productions on the grounds that I don't have enough time to visit every junior high and high school show on the stage.
I was hesitant about going to see the school edition of “Les Miserables” at Rabbit Run Theater in Madison. However, knowing how Director Brint Learned has brought the house from a low period to some of the best theater in northeastern Ohio, I surmised it was worth a jaunt to the old barn. And was I correct!
In a word, "Wow!" is the best descriptor for what I saw in this under 19 production. Right out of the gate, James Penca as Jean Valjean set the pace for the evening with the strength and quality of his voice. Off to Baldwin Wallace College in the fall to study Music Theatre, Penca should have an illustrious career ahead of him.
Kyle Lorek, in the role of Javert, belies his youth with his vocal interpretations and portrayal. This young man got it all right: from the voice to the look, he was the antagonist.
Two other strong male voices in the cast were Adam Cooper and Alex Lane as Marius and Enjolras, respectively. Both of these young men have great potential, but I gently offer that they need to work on consistency in producing round tones. Occasionally, they slipped into a nasality that pretty much defines an immature voice. However, let it be said that their acting was outstanding; they just need to grow a bit vocally. Stephen Sandham, as Garoche, walked away with the scene just about anytime he was on the stage. This youngster is a talented guy.
Kelly Smith (Eponine) was hands-down my favorite vocalist/actress. Her talent and stage presence presented themselves as totally natural. Running a close second was Mayim Hamblen as Cosette. When in duet with Smith, their performance was exciting. Caitlin Rose, as Fantine, gave a strong performance in her role. When she finishes her bachelor of fine arts in musical theater at Kent State, many opportunities should await her.
Matt Super and Kelsey Bowens performed the comic characters Monsieur and Madame Thenardier to much audience laughter. They seemed to have a handle on the ‘evil step-parents’ fairytale stereotype.
With a cast as large as this, one is hard-put to keep up with character names — especially when the actors appear as several different persons. There were some in this show who were in ensemble roles, but were worthy of singing major parts. Their presence on stage did nothing but strengthen the almost three-hour performance.
Chris Bott, musical director - in his 7th production at RRT, is an Ashtabula High School graduate who just finished his masters degree at Ball State University. His talent in working with budding actors is almost untouchable.
The sets were so well designed that their movement on stage was almost imperceptible. The technical aspects of the play appeared to be right on cue. Everything worked as it should have worked to make this show exciting and entertaining.
“Les Miserables” continues today through Sunday and July 9, 10 and 11. Curtain time is 8 each evening. Tickets may be reserved by phoning the box office at 440-428-7092 or purchase online at rabbitrunonline.tix.com
WEEKENDER / Entertainment
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‘Les Miserables’ a talented production
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