Select a region
2025 not only sees Les Misérables celebrate its 40th anniversary on the West End but also marks 170 years since Victor Hugo’s arrival in Guernsey.
In honour of this, The Ladies’ College chose the story that represents a dynamic breadth of Parisian society as their annual production, with students set to perform it in January.
Director and Head of Drama, Maggie King, said there are several reasons why it remains so important to celebrate Les Misérables, including the need to raise awareness for taking a stand like Victor Hugo when he was exiled in Guernsey.
"As much as there is historical significance, it is based on real events - these are emotions that we all go through now, that unrequited love, that feeling that you need to take a stand or do the right thing or what's in your heart despite outward influences," Mrs King said.
"That is one of the reasons why this story has stood the test of time because it's so universal, and so important for us to celebrate and tell this story again."
Students have been rehearsing since the start of the school year and will take on the roles of Hugo’s characters Jean Valjean, Madame Thenardier, and Eponine.
Pictured: Students at the Ladies College will perform Hugo's famous play in the new year.
Isabella, 16 is preparing to play Jean Valjean. "I have seen the movie and have started to read the original book by Victor Hugo," she said.
Co-star Issy, 16, added that she found her character Eponine to be very complex but crucial in sending a message.
"Eponine has lots of different emotions and it's about connecting to that. She’s a bit playful but also quite sad that the person she loves doesn't love her back and is oblivious, so, I think it's a tough balance in between," Issy said.
"I think it's important that we do the play in Guernsey - it really brings it back home and we're all proud of it being a part of our heritage."
The stage show, based on the novel which was partially written in Guernsey, is one of the longest running on the West End and one of the most popular musicals worldwide, seen by over 130 million people in 53 countries and performed in 22 languages.
As The Ladies’ College students prepare to bring their versions of the characters alive, Amena El-Kindy currently plays Eponine in the West End production, produced by Cameron Mackintosh, at the Sondheim Theatre.
Ms El-Kindy recently told the students how the story of Les Misérables continues to resonate with audiences today:
How does it feel to be a part of Les Mis in the West End, a play with such a rich history which attracts a global audience?
"It feels like a huge honour to be part of Les Misérables. Something I love is knowing that among the audiences of fans and friends, there are so many people who have never seen it before and are experiencing this incredible story for the first time, that's what makes it so exciting to perform night after night."
What is your personal connection to the play? Do you have a favourite character or story line? Have you been in a production of Les Mis before, at school, university, or somewhere else in the world?
"I've never been in the production before, and this will mark my West End debut. I remember singing 'On My Own' in one of my classes at university about five years ago and dreaming about getting the chance to work in the West End, let alone play my favourite character in Les Misérables. Young Amena wouldn't believe me if I told her."
Pictured: A new Victor Hugo Centre is planned for the centre of St Peter Port.
How do you feel the themes of social injustice still resonate with audiences today? What are the standout messages for you?
"I think Jean Valjean is such an easy character to root for because you see his change of heart. Although he breaks the law and makes mistakes you see he is driven by good intentions, and you desperately want to see him succeed. One of my favourite lines is, "Somewhere beyond the barricade is there a world you long to see?" It incites hope whilst it asks the audience what they are willing to fight for and that, of course, will always be relevant."
What does it mean to you to be playing Eponine and how have you connected with the character during your time playing her?
"Playing Éponine is one of the greatest gifts of my life so far. Éponine and I have many things in common, we are both very playful, boisterous and would do anything for our loved ones, loyal to a fault. Her fearless nature gives me strength when I don’t, and her passionate solo is so cathartic to perform. I love my job; it truly is a dream come true."
Pictured: Larry Malcic (left) is Chair of the Victor Hugo in Guernsey Society.
The planned Victor Hugo Centre in Guernsey is intended to build on Hugo’s rich legacy in literature, drama, and art by becoming a hub for local creatives.
It will provide a space where ambitious young local talent can take centre stage, where artists can draw inspiration from Hugo’s work, and where the community can celebrate the arts together.
In supporting the centre, it's hoped that the island can ensure that Guernsey continues to be a place where creativity thrives.
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.