Tom Hooper’s 2012 film adaptation of the iconic musical Les Misérables left many viewers with mixed feelings. Hugh Jackman’s big sideburns? Revolutionary. Russell Crowe’s singing? Misérable. Fortunately, there’s a fresh way to dive into Claude-Michel Schönberg’s amazing music: with Amherst Symphony Orchestra. The group’s one-night-only concert engagement will bring to life famous songs from the 1980 musical, including “I Dreamed a Dream,” “Do You Hear the People Sing,” and “One Day More.” Those who are already familiar with the sweeping storyline of Victor Hugo’s novel, set in early 19th-century France, will easily follow along with peasant Jean Valjean as he serves 19 years in jail, evades police inspector Javert, and foments a furious populism in the streets. But even theatre noobs will appreciate the lush arrangements and epic scale of one of the most popular and thrilling Broadway scores of all time.
Amherst Symphony Orchestra Presents Les Misérables In Concert, 8 p.m. Buckley Recital Hall, Amherst College, Amherst, (413) 542-2195.
— Hunter Styles, hstyles@valleyadvocate.com
