Monday, April 25, 2016

Les Miserables in Manila




It has been three years since we saw the movie "Les Miserables." Last weekend, my husband and I took time to watch the musical which was having a run here in Manila.

Can I just say that this story never grows old! No matter how many times I have read and watched it, there is always something new that I learn from it and it never fails to bring me to tears.



It was my first time to watch at The Theater in Solaire Resorts and Casino.  It is not as huge as the CCP or that of its competitor Resorts World.  The Press Release says that there is no bad seat in this theater but I  can imagine that those seated on rows A-F on the left and right sides of the stage must have had stiff-necks from not only for slightly looking up but also for looking to one side.  I would think that they got a limited view of the stage especially if one is seated nearest to the side exit doors.

We were, fortunately, seated on the center middle row with seats N18-19. I would think that this had a nice view of the entire stage.  Hence, close enough to see the facial features of the actors but not too close to be spitted upon. (Haha!) Those seats are close enough to the orchestra pit to see the conductor and to fully appreciate the music.

Of course, being Filipinos, we can't help but have high expectations as we watched Rachelle Ann Go. First off, I must say that she must be exhausted. While not playing Fantine, I could see her being part of the "crowd"/ chorus.  And news says that she promised to sing in all the shows. No wonder she got sick a couple of weeks back!

I think Ms. Go's acting could still be improved. The consensus among those who have seen the musical is that she looked like she was acting like an Old Woman instead of a Sick Woman at the dock. (Haha!)

The other members of the cast were all tremendously good. So, it really was a great show. If you could watch it, you should.  The show runs until May 1 2016.

At whatever stage in life you are in, I am sure you would find something of value when you do come to watch the musical or when you do read Victor Hugo's Les Miserables.

I remember that when I was still in High School, it appealed to my childish fantasy about romantic love and I felt so much empathy with Eponine and her unrequited love for Marius.

As an ideal youth, the songs of the young men in the barricade and their love for country resonated with me.

Older now and hopefully a bit wiser, I am beginning to understand the moral struggle of Inspector Javert. I am also overwhelmed in the knowledge that God's grace can change any man even a convict like Jean Valjean.

As a mother, now, while I sat in the theater, I am attracted to Fantine, because like her  I will do anything for my daughter.

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