by Heather Neumann (Author)
Les Misérables by Victor Hugo, first published in 1862, is widely considered one of the greatest novels of the 19th century. It deals with some of the most universally relevant tribulations of mankind- it explores themes of justice, love, redemption, and the human condition. The plot revolves around the lives of several characters, most notably Jean Valjean, a former convict seeking redemption, and Javert, the relentless police inspector pursuing him. Set against the backdrop of early 19th-century France, the novel vividly portrays the social and economic disparities of the time, capturing the struggles of the poor and disenfranchised. This adaptation allows for the audience to hear Victor's own words come to life.
This adaptation of Les Misérables seeks to honor the emotional depth and spiritual power of Victor Hugo's novel while presenting it in a clear, poetic, and performable format for the stage. At its heart, this is a story of grace and transformation, of justice and mercy, of suffering and hope. The scenes move swiftly-yet the human drama remains constant, within the theme of light and dark. Every character, from the noblest to the most fallen, is wrestling with who they are and what they believe in a world both beautiful and broken. This version embraces the novel's moral weight and emotional grandeur while offering room for creativity, intimacy, and simplicity in staging.