I am a BIG Les Misérables fan. I’ve seen the West End production at least 20 times, along with numerous other versions — the UK Tour, the Staged Concert, various School Editions, and, most recently, the Arena Spectacular World Tour.
Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to see some incredible performers: Carrie Hope Fletcher as both Éponine and Fantine, Samantha Barks as Éponine, Bradley Jaden as Enjolras and Javert, Michael Ball as Javert, Matt Lucas as Thénardier, Bonnie Langford as Madame Thénardier, and John Owen-Jones as Jean Valjean. Twice now, I’ve had tickets for shows featuring Alfie Boe as Valjean — in the Staged Concert and the Arena Spectacular — but sadly, both times he was unwell and unable to perform.
But enough about my West End experiences — let’s talk about last night: the UK amateur premiere of Les Misérables: Let The People Sing! at the Theatre Royal Brighton. And let me tell you, there was nothing amateur about this show. It was absolutely fantastic from start to finish.
“At The End of the Day,” what’s it all about?
Set in 19th-century France, Les Misérables follows the life of Jean Valjean, a man imprisoned for 19 years for stealing a loaf of bread. Upon his release, he struggles to adapt to life on the outside — shunned by society for being an ex-convict. Determined to start anew, he breaks his parole to become a better man. Along the way, he promises to care for Cosette, the daughter of one of his former factory workers, Fantine. But Inspector Javert, a relentless former prison guard, is determined to bring him to justice. Many years later, their paths cross again in Paris during the French Revolution. The show is filled with love, passion, courage, and heartache — but whose story will break your heart? You’ll have to see it for yourself.
Standout performances
Wayne Roberts as Javert was absolutely sensational. By day, he’s a funeral director; by night, he transforms into one of musical theatre’s most complex antagonists. His portrayal was commanding, intense, and utterly captivating — “Stars” is one of my favourite songs, and Roberts delivered it flawlessly. His final scene gave me goosebumps. This is also the perfect moment to applaud the set and costume design — they were outstanding and made it feel like I was back in the West End.
and Lucia Romero Clark and Carl Lovejoy as Madame Thénardier and Thénardier
Nina Hayward and Max Jenkins played Cosette and Marius, and both were excellent. Cosette’s soprano role brings a different style to the show that I really love, and Hayward delivered it beautifully. Jenkins’ rendition of Empty Chairs at Empty Tables was moving, and his final scene with Éponine, played by Mitzi Tullett, was emotional and raw — a true highlight of the night.
Lucia Romero Clark and Carl Lovejoy were a dynamic duo as Madame Thénardier and Thénardier. By trade, she’s a podiatrist and he’s a guide dog carer, yet you’d never guess they’re not full-time stage performers. Their chemistry, comedic timing, and energy lit up the stage. At the curtain call, Clark’s reaction to Brighton’s standing ovation was touching — she held it together, but I could see the emotion in her face and even a few tears. That moment alone spoke volumes about the cast’s passion for this production.
Amie De Valero Bragg took on the role of Fantine with remarkable emotional depth. This character demands raw vulnerability, and she delivered it in abundance. I Dreamed a Dream is a favourite for many audiences, which makes it a high-pressure moment — yet she made it look effortless, pouring heart and soul into every note.
And finally, 24601 himself — Jean Valjean, played by James Harrington. A demanding role that glues the entire show together, yet he nailed it. His performance was heartfelt, vocally powerful, and deeply moving — even if the wig looked a little suspicious at times. It’s clearly a dream role for him, and he rose to the challenge with everything he had.
Final thoughts
This production proved that “amateur” doesn’t have to mean “second best.” Every member of the cast poured heart and soul into their roles, and it showed in every note, every glance, and every moment of silence. It was a performance worthy of any West End stage — and one I’ll remember for a very long time. Bravo to everyone involved.
Do not waste One Day More, and book your tickets HERE. Performances 7:15pm Tuesday-Saturday with matinees Thursday and Saturday at 2pm.