As the new year settles in, so does a whole new year of theater and performing arts. If you’re looking to experience theater off-campus, a visit to the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center (PAC) is a must. Less than a 15-minute walk from campus, it is easy to get to, even in this freezing weather.
The 2024 Broadway season is kicking off with an all-time classic, “Les Misérables.” Taking place in 19th-century France, the musical tells a story of “broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption.”
The show runs for six days only, opening on Feb. 20 and closing on Feb. 25. It will be performed Feb. 20 to Feb. 24 at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee performance on Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. On Feb. 25 the times are a bit different, as there is a showing at 1 p.m. and another at 6:30 p.m.
I am personally thrilled that “Les Misérables” is coming to Appleton. As someone who loves musical theater and learning about world history, this is the perfect show. It combines ethics (stealing a loaf of bread to feed your family), romance (“A Heart Full of Love”) and strange dark humor (“Master of the House,” anyone?).
Despite being a “Les Misérables” aficionado, I have never actually seen the Broadway show. I’ve watched clips on YouTube, watched and re-watched the movie musical, and sang the songs too many times to count. Yet, I don’t know how it all comes together on the Broadway stage.
Given the wide range of songs and sequences in “Les Misérables,” I’m especially curious to see how the performers convey the dynamic storyline. How different will it be from the 2012 movie musical? Will the iconic song “I Dreamed a Dream” still hit as hard without the close up shots of Fantine? How will the large ensemble pieces be staged, such as the factory and barricade scenes?
One thing that routinely makes me mad about “Les Misérables” is the portrayal of the character Cosette. Although her existence is central to the plot, the actual scenes of her character are always tied to those of a male character, such as her adoptive father Jean Valjean or her love interest Marius.
Sexism isn’t the only item to watch out for in this lively show. According to the PAC’s website, the production uses strobe lighting, gun shots, open flame, fog and haze. The PAC does offer some accommodations, such as ASL, captioning and accessible seating. This information can be found on the PAC’s website, foxcitespac.com/events-tickets.
To get tickets, go to the PAC’s website and order online or call the ticket office at 920-730-3760. It is also worth calling to inquire about student rush tickets, which may be available for a discounted price right before the performance. Keep in mind that rush tickets are not always available and require you to arrive at the PAC well in advance with your student ID.
If you do decide to attend “Les Misérables,” I hope you have a lovely time! Make sure to dress warmly if you’re walking, and prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster. But, if this show isn’t the one for you, keep your eyes out for the Broadway shows coming later this season.