Les Misérables

In May, Catholic Regional College Sydenham put on their first ever musical production. In late November of 2018 it was decided that the first musical put on at CRC Sydenham would be Les Misérables, and from then on, we knew we had our work cut out for us as the creative team. The biggest challenge was finding a group of senior students who would be willing to give up their time in two incredibly important years of schooling, but also ones that could pull off such an ambitious musical.

It would be fair to say that a such a musically intricate show had its challenges for the students as the absence of dialogue meant that capturing the magic that is Les Mis had to be portrayed through the way that the students interpreted each of their characters. In addition to this, part of the cast was also comprised of VCE Theatre Studies students who had the task to help design the set, costumes, props and make-up. Therefore, it was due to these student’s sheer determination and commitment to make our first musical the most memorable, that our 4 performances were as successful as they were. Some of these students had never stepped foot on a stage before this production and it was a very proud moment seeing all of them, experienced or not, sing their hearts out as Nineteenth Century ‘beggars’ or ‘students’ of the revolution.

Giving up countless hours of afterschool and weekend rehearsals, the cast worked extremely hard together and, in the end, became a family, who were there for each other every step of the way. It would not be as successful as it were if not for the amazing backstage crew (made up of both current and former CRC students, as well as some incredibly helpful teachers) tirelessly helping during the many rehearsals and performances.

The feedback for Les Mis from the school community and beyond (particularly from lighting, sound and photography professionals who we had the privilege to work with) was tremendously positive, all commenting that the students’ performances were far beyond expectations and were of a professional standard. Many times, throughout the performances, the cast of individuals moved me and I know others, to tears, with their incredible talent, hard work and efforts. A huge congratulations to these Year 11 and 12s.

With such a successful show to begin with, there is lots of excitement for what show will come next. Keep your eyes peeled for information to come soon regarding auditions during Term 4.

Cass Hutchison - Director