Les Misérables Captivates Minneapolis With Its Wonder

Les Misérables has made a stop in Minneapolis as part of its nationwide tour, with performances continuing at the Orpheum Theater through Sunday, February 22nd. If you’ve been thinking about seeing it, now’s your chance.

Last night, I had the opportunity to see one of the most iconic Broadway productions of all time. Although the story dates back to 1862 when Victor Hugo first published his groundbreaking novel, it’s clear why it continues to resonate with audiences across the globe. Originally written in French and translated into English shortly after its release, the story has since been published and musically adapted in more than 22 languages. Even though it’s rooted in the era of the French Revolution, the emotions and themes of justice, hope, and humanity still feel remarkably modern.

Going into the show, I actually knew very little about the plot. I had never seen the musical or the 2012 movie adaptation starring Anne Hathaway, Hugh Jackman, and Russell Crowe. But thanks to a few “theater kid” friends in my life, I was already pretty familiar with the soundtrack. Still, I was surprised by how quickly the show pulled me in.

The production opens with the intense, rhythmic song Look Down, performed by a group of imprisoned French laborers. Their worn-down voices and the dark, industrial staging immediately set the somber tone that continues through much of the story. We soon meet Jean Valjean, a former prisoner whose life is transformed by an unexpected act of mercy from a priest. Watching his journey, from convict to mayor to guardian, unfold onstage is quite compelling. His path crosses with Fantine, whose tragic story and emotional ballad I Dreamed a Dream were among the most memorable moments of the night.

As the show moves through several time jumps, we follow Fantine’s daughter, Cosette, as she grows into a teenager. Alongside her is Eponine, whose unrequited love becomes one of the emotional highlights of the second act. When Jaedynn Latter (who plays Eponine) stepped forward to sing On My Own, the entire theater seemed to hold its breath. Her voice was rich, expressive, and genuinely captivating, one of the evening’s standout performances.

Despite all the darkness and heartbreak woven through the story, the show also offers moments of much‑needed levity. Thénardier and Madame Thénardier brought unexpected comedy to the stage with their playful, chaotic performance of “Master of the House,” earning plenty of laughter from the audience. The cast also featured three talented child actors who added humor and heart with impressive timing and confidence.

Surprisingly, one of the things that impressed me most was the staging and special effects design. Given the historical setting, I wasn’t expecting much in terms of special effects, but I was wrong. There were multiple moments where clever projections and staging elements made the scenes feel cinematic. At one point, I even jumped out of my seat. It added an extra level of immersion that I wasn’t anticipating.

One thing I hadn’t realized beforehand is that Les Misérables is a sung‑through musical, meaning there’s very little spoken dialogue. Everything is delivered through song. I’ll admit that style is not my favorite, and it was probably one of my only personal critiques of the experience. If you’re not usually a fan of sung‑through shows, it’s something to keep in mind.

It’s also worth noting that this is a long production. Definitely plan for a later night. But even with its length, the emotional pacing keeps you invested from beginning to end.

Although the show is filled with loss, conflict, and sacrifice, it closes with a sense of hope and courage as the cast takes their final bows. It’s a powerful reminder of why this story has lasted for more than a century and continues to be retold in so many forms.

If you plan to catch the Minneapolis run before it leaves town, you’re in for a moving, beautifully staged experience that brings one of the greatest stories ever written to life.