Yes! My favorite musical is back in Manila. Les Misérables World Tour Spectacular is running until March 1st at The Theaters at Solaire in Paranaque, so go see it if you are a fan! Me, I have been a big fan since high school, after seeing the 10th anniversary concert. Immediately, I printed out the lyrics to the entire musical and memorized it, until today. I have also influenced my siblings because they didn’t really have a choice back then, they would hear the songs when I played them at home.

This is my 4th time to see the musical. The first was a local rendition back in Cebu when I was in college (circa 2006/2007 – I can’t remember exactly). The local actors did their best so I’ll consider it as my first time! The second time was in 2016 in the same theater in Solaire – yes, 10 years ago! The third time, at the Sondheim Theater when I had the privilege of visiting London last 2024.

This time, I had to share the experience with my two younger siblings (sorry big sister, there will be a next time!). It is their first theater experience and I’m happy that Les Miz is their first!

OK – so the show itself! Wow, I cried at least 10 times. All of the actors did very well! They were literally crying while singing! And the singing was also perfect, comparable even to my favorite Les Miz cast (of the 10th anniversary concert). We did notice though that the tempo for most of the songs were a bit sped up – and that’s one of the things they changed for this tour. It also wasn’t a full play, but not also just a concert. It’s somewhere in the middle – you still get to experience the musical but in a more contemporary or modern (?) way. I loved it because I could clearly see everyone’s faces and emotions. Geronimo Rauch really gave justice to Valjean, and I always have high expectations for this character because of songs like Valjean’s Soliloquy and Bring Him Home. Javert, my favorite character, was also excellently played by Jeremy Secomb! The passion was burning – and his suicide scene was full of tears! Lea Salonga also surprised me as Madame Thenardier, I didn’t think she fit the role at first, but damn, she delivered!!! Her take on Madame Thenardier was unique, too – she showed different levels of emotion with the role. Red Concepcion’s Thenardier was likewise so perfect! Now my only critique would have been that Gavroche should have gone to Filipino actor since the parents and Eponine were played by Filipinos! Haha. But that’s just me. The child actors did very well and I’m amazed at how they could perform like professionals at such young ages.

Again, I loved everything but if I had to pick my top 3 performances, it would be Valjean’s Soliloquy, The Bargain / The Waltz of Treachery, and Empty Chairs & Empty Tables!

My words are not enough, so I implore you to watch this run of Les Miz in Manila while you can! I’d definitely rate it a 5/5! And I’d even dare say I’d watch it again if I have the funds (and time) this February. I’ve seen Les Miz in London but this was at par, if not, even more emotional for me because I was seated quite close to the stage, so I was able to really appreciate the emotions from the actors. My siblings enjoyed it a lot, too, so it was worth the money spent.

Have you seen Les Misérables? What’s your favorite musical? Please share in the comments below!