Les Miserables – a cast member perspective

In September ’09, it was decided that St. Mary’s and Good Counsel would attempt to stage “Les Miserables” inApril 2010. A daunting task! To say we were apprehensive is an understatement. Our production team of Bill Stafford, Ann-Marie Stafford and Kevin Kennedy were quietly confident that we could pull it off.
Over 70 brave students auditioned on a miserable Tuesday in February. The talent unearthed at these auditions was outstanding.  The show was cast and the work began.
Musical rehearsals kicked off the process and soon, Kevin actually had the boys singing harmony in tune!!
Once the music was learned, Bill and Ann-Marie set the scenes and choreographed the show. This part of rehearsals was exciting as the cast saw the show take shape and come together. Meanwhile, costumes were being ordered, Tom Reddy and Tom Quigley were hard at work on the set, and Pat Younger was busy convincing our generous sponsors to part with their hard earned cash.
Our next big challenge was moving rehearsals to St. Michael’s Theatre. The cast had to contend with lighting, sound, props, set, costumes and make up. Many had never stood on stage before, yet all the students rose to the challenge. These days before opening night caused many sleepless nights and were the reason for many silent prayers! (Which were answered thankfully!)
Wednesday 21^st April was D Day. The excitement nerves kicked in. the tension was palpable and this was it.
The students performed to full houses and received standing ovations.
A celebration and wrap party was held in “The Horse and Hound” on Saturday 24^th after the show. A huge thank you to all students, staff, family and friends who “joined in our crusade” by helping out backstage and at the front of the house.