Pullman High School is excited to announce that they will be showcasing the school edition of “Les Miserables” over the course of two weekends, from March 7 to March 16. The show takes place at 7 p.m. on March 7–8, March 14–15, and at 2 p.m. on March 9 and 16.
Tickets are priced at $10 for adults and $5 for children and students. The proceeds will cover the licensing rights and production expenses of the show, according to Andy Mielke, the music and drama teacher at PHS.
Adapted from Victor Hugo’s novel, “Les Misérables” explores profound themes such as class struggle, revolution, suicide, and despair, Mielke explained. The school edition is a condensed version of the original three-hour Broadway production.
Despite the somber title, Mielke emphasized that the underlying message of the show is one of redemption and forgiveness.
The Drama Club selected “Les Misérables” based on recommendations from its members. Mielke mentioned that PHS incurs costs for each performance, and “Les Misérables” was a cost-effective choice.
With over 60 students involved, coaching, costume design, and rehearsals lasting at least two hours daily after school are significant commitments, Mielke noted.
Each performance will feature different students in key roles like Jean Valjean, Javert, Fantine, and Eponine, as the cast is double-cast, Mielke added.
The majority of the actors are in grades nine through 12, with three middle school students portraying Young Cosette and Eponine.
Rehearsals commenced in late November 2023, and the club is now prepared to showcase the production.
Mielke described the show as a sung-through musical, akin to an opera.
Following a rigorous three-day audition process led by Mielke and assistant director Aryn Vance, the casting was finalized, which Mielke identified as the most challenging aspect of the production.
Looking ahead, the club aspires to stage “Frozen” in 2025.