The USA Premiere of Les Misérables in 1986

Name: The USA Premiere of Les Misérables in 1986
Start: 1986-12-27
Location: Unspecified

The Broadway Sensation of Les Misérables Begins in Washington, D.C.

The Premiere of Les Misérables

On December 4, 1986, the musical Les Misérables, based on the classic novel by Victor Hugo, made its much-anticipated premier in the United States at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.. This theatrical adaptation brought the tale of redemption, love, and resilience to life with powerful music and stirring performances.

The Influence of Victor Hugo

Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables originally published in 1862, explored themes of social injustice, moral dilemmas, and the impact of law vs. compassion. The musical adaptation, with a book by Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil, reinterpreted these themes through breathtaking musical scores that captured the audience's hearts.

The Revolutionary Impact of Les Misérables on Musical Theater

A New Era for American Theater

The 1986 production showcased the extraordinary talents of actor Colm Wilkinson, who starred as Jean Valjean, and introduced many Americans to the rich, emotive world of European musical theater. This performance marked a significant turning point, opening the door for many other international musicals on Broadway.

The Legacy of Les Misérables

Since its opening, Les Misérables has gone on to become one of the most celebrated musicals in theater history. It has been translated into numerous languages and performed in theaters across the globe, inspiring countless adaptations and productions, solidifying its status as a classic.

Fun Fact

Colm Wilkinson's Impact

Colm Wilkinson, who played Jean Valjean in this premiere, became a prominent figure in the world of musical theater, often regarded as the definitive Valjean, and his performance during this time is still considered one of the best renditions of the role.