Les Miserables

November 8th - "Take 2"

“Take 2” was the wonderful Les Mis experience of Sunday’s rehearsal when the 2 components of the production – the chorus and the orchestra were put together for the very first time. Using the St David cafeteria as a combined stage and orchestra pit both sections of the company combined their talents to rehearse the first quarter of the show concert style. The orchestra though had a hard time concentrating on the music because they wanted to watch the actors. The chorus had an equally hard time focusing on the songs because they wanted to listen to the orchestra. However, by the end of the afternoon thunderous peer applause signaled that both groups had done a super job. “It was totally awesome,” one cast member said to her friend commenting on the new experience of singing accompanied at last by more than just a piano.

Energy and enthusiasm was abundantly evident as 130 young people continued to bring the Victor Hugo classic to life. Throughout the whole afternoon the double cast leads and supporting vocalists developed the personas of their characters. It was amazing to listen and watch as each actor became more comfortable with his/her 19th century French counterpart. It was hard work today blocking strategic moves and ironing out wrinkles for the best staging effect.

Singing with the orchestra made the rehearsal seem more real. It brought home the fact that in just 5 short months the students will actually be performing live on stage at Centre in the Square. While the end goal is ever present in the minds of the cast, the journey to get there is a fabulous growth experience for everyone.

Carole Aldworth
Co-Producer

October 25 - Update

“Totally awesome” and “amazing” are only two of the many positive descriptors of the ambitious WCDSB production of Victor Hugo’s classic, Les Miserables. This student version scheduled to run April 6,7,8 and 9^th at Kitchener’s Centre in the Square, boasts an onstage cast of 100 students with an additional 25 in the orchestra. Mr. Allan Hoch, the artistic director, and Mrs. Jennifer Rodrigues, the musical director, have only the highest praise for the talent, commitment and dedication of this wonderful group of young people. Even the scales sound wonderful as the soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices combine in melodic harmony.

With the rich wealth of student talent the directors have successfully double cast the 11 principal roles. The company consists of students from our 5 secondary schools as well as the elementary panel.

Excitement has been in the air from the very beginning of auditions last May . The Les Mis prep summer camp in August provided an excellent opportunity for team building and bonding. The September and October rehearsals have been extremely successful with cast and orchestra learning new music and practising individual and chorus parts. Full company rehearsals continue every Sunday until show time.

Tickets are now on sale at The Centre in the Square box office. Prices start at $18.50 and range upward to $36.50. Adult and students prices are available as well. “Anyone interested in attending this outstanding performance is encouraged to get tickets early as a sell out is expected”, said co-producer Beth Wolf. Tickets make great Christmas gifts while supporting the arts in our schools.

Carole Aldworth

Co-producer

October 24 - Farewell Monsignor Doyle

Cast and crew bid a fond farewell to Monsignor Doyle High School this past Sunday. All enjoyed a feast fit for both slaves and kings. The rehearsal scene now shifts to St. David's.

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