Laughter and jokes aren't exactly the type of sounds one would expect from a tragedy, but the scene was one of easy camaraderie, fun and lightheartedness as the cast of the opera Les Miserables–staged by the Marionettes Chorale this weekend–did a full rehearsal last Sunday.
The rehearsal took place at country club in Maraval, where, out of costume but still in character, the cast of Les Mis, were shot by soldiers and felt broken hearts. Director Caroline Taylor danced in and out of scenes as she gave the players a critical eye.
The opera was staged last year, and after many requests for it to be restaged, the Marionettes are doing it again. There are few changes to what people have described as a marvellous cast. Only one cast member, Marlon De Bique, who played Jean Valjean alongside Nigel Floyd will be absent.
Floyd keeps the role for three nights from May 22 to 24.
The play is about rebellion, revolution, sin and politics, intertwined with strong sentiments of hope and love.
The initial run of Les Mis last year featured superb performances from young Elise Blanc as Gavroche, Candice Alcantara as Fantine and Marvin Smith as the complex yet hated Inspector Javert.
The cast seemed to have fun as they rehearsed lines but also stayed in character except for a few laughing moments.
Musical director Greta Taylor commanded the musicians as though they were live on stage in front of an audience, never missing a beat or a dramatic pause.
Les Mis will run for one weekend, this weekend at Queen's Hall.
