Seniors Blaine Krauss as Jean Valjean and Kimber Sprawl as Fantine in CCM’s Mainstage Series production of LES MISERABLES. Photo by Mark Lyons.
Panelists for the League of Cincinnati Theatres (LCT) have recognized the College Conservatory of Music’s production of the long running musical classic LES MISERABLES with a 5 Star Rating.
Panelists praised the production as “Spectacular…an outstanding and phenomenal production…Bravo for everyone involved for taking a musical I have seen multiple times and making it as fresh, exciting and powerful as the first.” Director Aubrey Berg was praised for his “seamless” direction: “Aubrey Berg said he had waited over 20 years to direct this musical at CCM and he could not have done it more effectively, with some masterful choices.” Musical Director Steve Goers also was commended for his “direction of these fine voices and in the outstanding orchestral accompaniment”: he did a “wonderful job with taking a beast of a show and making it sing beautifully”.
The panelists were impressed by the entire ensemble: “the show absolutely showcased the incredible depth of CCM’s students..the talent level continues to amaze.” Blaine Krauss, as Jean Valjean, “gave a sensitive, true portrayal of the character…his voice was moving…he should go directly to Broadway.” Panelists also singled out Colin Kessler, as Javert, for his “outstanding” performance and “remarkable voice”, as well as Matthew Paul Hill’s portrayal of Thenardier: “hilarious in an evil and unctuous manner. He almost stole the show.”
LES MISERABLES runs through March 9th. Tickets can be obtained through the CCM box office at their website, http://ccm.uc.edu/boxoffice.html. Note: this review was based on the opening night cast. On alternate nights, the roles of Jean Valjean and Javert are also played by Julian Decker and Noah Ricketts, respectively.
League of Cincinnati Theatre panelists evaluate productions on a 5 star scale and recommend shows at either a 4 star or 5 star level. Nominations for LCT awards will be determined and announced at the end of the season and winners awarded at the annual LCT gala in the spring.
The League of Cincinnati Theatres was founded in 1999 to strengthen, nurture and promote Cincinnati’s theatre community. LCT provides its member companies and individual members with education, resources and services to enhance the quality and exposure of the theatre community in Cincinnati and increase community awareness, attendance and involvement. More information about the League can be found at www.leagueofcincytheatres.com.
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