Les Miserables debuts at the Bardo Arts Center

Jean Valjean, played by Chase Edward McCall, has been granted parole by Inspector Javert, played by Cullen Ries.

Jean Valjean, played by Chase Edward McCall, has been granted parole by Inspector Javert, played by Cullen Ries.
Photo by Ceillie Simkiss

A stunning performance took the stage at Western Carolina University on April 3, 2014. Directed by Terrence Mann, known by many as the first to play the title role Inspector Javert on Broadway, Les Miserables is being presented by the WCU School of Stage and Screen’s Musical Theatre program as part of their Mainstage Season.

The tale is based in France in the 19th century, outlining the tales of several figures as they pass throughout their troubles. It’s a story that tells of revolution and justice and that love exists even in these unlikely places. For Mann, it was an opportunity to revisit an old favorite.

“I’ve worked here for 8 years, and it’s a gift to come back to this show,” Mann said. “Watching these students reminds me why I did. Having a passion for the show is what’s important, and everyone here has that.”

Opening night is known far and wide to be an intimidating hurdle for any actor, but the students in Les Miserables took the challenge in stride. Any on-stage incidents were taken in stride, such as microphones failing but actors pushing themselves to project even up to the balcony. One of the most excited for the show was Chase McCall, lead in the roll of Jean Valjean.

“This has been my first show-carrying lead, and opening night was exhilarating, but those bows were something I’ve been waiting for,” McCall said. “I couldn’t have asked for a better show, or better audience.” 

Jean Valjean saves a man's life by lifting a fallen wagon off of him. Photo by Ceillie Simkiss

Jean Valjean (Chase McCall) saves a man’s life by lifting a fallen wagon off of him.
Photo by Ceillie  Simkiss

 

It wasn’t just the lead actors that put in the hard work for the show either. Every student who took part in the show, whether it was on-stage or behind the curtain, pushed themselves for performance.

“It’s amazing to just be a small part in the show,” Jordana McMahn, one of the ensemble crew, said. “Just to sing the music, it never gets old and you’re never bored with it.”

Les Miserables will continue to run through April 6 in the Bardo Arts Center.