A Historic Opening Night
On January 24, 1987, Les Misérables officially opened on Broadway, bringing the epic tale of Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables to New York City’s famed theater district. Directed by Trevor Nunn with music by Claude-Michel Schönberg, the production captivated audiences with its powerful story of love, sacrifice, and revolution set during post-revolutionary France. Starring Colm Wilkinson as Jean Valjean, the musical received rave reviews for its emotional depth, haunting score, and unforgettable performances.
An Instant Sensation: Broadway’s Newest Phenomenon
From the moment Les Misérables opened, it was clear that the production was going to make history. The Broadway debut quickly became a sensation, running for over 6,000 performances and earning its place as one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history. The musical’s grand scale, breathtaking choreography, and compelling storytelling drew audiences in and kept them captivated for years.
The production’s impressive scope—featuring large ensemble numbers, intricate staging, and dynamic visuals—was a new benchmark for Broadway musicals. With an emotional narrative that spanned several decades and focused on themes like justice, redemption, and revolution, Les Misérables resonated with audiences of all ages, creating a shared cultural experience that defined an era of musical theater.
A Score for the Ages: Iconic Songs and Memorable Performances
Les Misérables became renowned for its unforgettable score, which included songs that quickly became anthems in the musical theater world. Tracks like “I Dreamed a Dream,” sung by Fantine (originally portrayed by Tony-winner Patti LuPone), and “On My Own,” performed by Éponine (Judy Kuhn in the Broadway production), captured the hearts of audiences with their emotional depth and lyrical beauty. These songs, along with others like “Do You Hear the People Sing?” and “One Day More,” have become staples of musical theater, often performed by aspiring actors in auditions and concerts.
The powerful performances delivered by the cast elevated the show even further. Colm Wilkinson’s portrayal of Jean Valjean, filled with vulnerability and strength, became iconic. The emotional journey of Valjean—from a hardened criminal to a redeemed father figure—resonated deeply with audiences, showcasing the depth of both the character and the actor’s talent.
Career-Defining Roles for the Cast
For the cast, Les Misérables was a career-defining production. Lea Salonga’s portrayal of the tragic Éponine earned her widespread acclaim and recognition, while Judy Kuhn’s portrayal of Cosette also left a lasting impression on theater audiences. Philip Quast’s portrayal of Javert, the unwavering inspector, was another standout performance that garnered praise for its intensity and complexity.
The success of the Broadway production not only helped establish these actors as theatrical icons but also brought them international recognition. Many of the cast members went on to enjoy prosperous careers in musical theater, TV, and film. The musical’s widespread success across multiple global stages cemented Les Misérables as an enduring part of the world’s cultural landscape.
Behind the Scenes: A Technical Marvel
Behind the scenes, Les Misérables was a technical marvel. The elaborate sets, designed to bring the world of post-revolutionary France to life, were an integral part of the show’s success. The production featured intricate set designs that could quickly transform between the bustling streets of Paris, the oppressive prison camps, and the regal interiors of the French aristocracy. These transformative elements were paired with elaborate costumes that helped create the immersive, gritty world of Les Misérables.
The technical achievements didn’t stop with the sets and costumes. The orchestrations, which combined classic musical theater traditions with modern musical sensibilities, created a sound that was both grand and intimate. With music composed by Claude-Michel Schönberg, the score’s rich melodies and sweeping orchestrations complemented the story’s epic scale while also highlighting its personal moments of character development and emotional reflection.
A Global Success: Les Misérables Goes Worldwide
The Broadway success of Les Misérables laid the foundation for its global popularity. The show was performed in numerous countries and languages, captivating audiences around the world. Its success was not confined to the stage—it also inspired a major film adaptation in 2012, directed by Tom Hooper, which brought the story to a new generation of viewers. The film was met with both critical acclaim and box office success, reinforcing the story’s timeless appeal.
Les Misérables also inspired countless other musical adaptations, proving the lasting power of epic narratives brought to life through song and theater. Its influence on the musical theater landscape is immeasurable, paving the way for other large-scale productions to follow in its footsteps.
Legacy: One of Broadway’s Greatest Productions
Les Misérables remains one of the greatest Broadway productions of all time, continuing to captivate audiences with its universal themes of love, justice, and redemption. Its longevity, from its 1987 debut to its continued performances worldwide, speaks to the power of the musical’s emotional depth and the timeless appeal of Victor Hugo’s original story.
The show’s influence on theater, as well as its cultural impact, is undeniable. Les Misérables changed the landscape of Broadway, showing that musicals could tackle serious themes with both spectacle and soul. As it continues to inspire new generations of theatergoers, Les Misérables stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling through music.
Conclusion: A Cultural Touchstone in Theater History
The premiere of Les Misérables on January 24, 1987, marked the beginning of one of Broadway’s most successful and influential runs. The show’s blend of emotional storytelling, unforgettable music, and groundbreaking technical achievements made it a defining moment in theater history. Today, Les Misérables remains a beloved classic, continuing to inspire audiences and artists alike, proving that its themes of hope, sacrifice, and the fight for justice are as relevant as ever.