⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Amateur only in name!”
Last night, I had the absolute privilege of watching Let The People Sing, Les Misérables at The Alexandra in Birmingham and wow, just wow. This might technically be an “amateur” production, but honestly, if you’d walked in off the street, you’d assume it was straight out of the West End.
Put together by BMOS Musical Theatre Company in collaboration with Bilston Operatic Society, Bournville Musical Theatre Company, and West Bromwich Operatic Society (yes, a true Midlands dream team), this show is part of a special project called Let The People Sing! celebrating 40 years of Les Misérables, and what a celebration it is!
From the moment the prologue began, it was apparent this wasn’t going to be an average local show. The acting, the staging, the lighting, the music, it was all just so beautifully done. Every detail had been thought about, even what was going on quietly in the background of big scenes. It felt layered, rich, and totally alive.
Special shoutout to Will Neale as Jean Valjean, who genuinely gave me goosebumps. His voice, his presence, the way he captured Valjean’s journey from prisoner to protector was absolutely incredible. “Bring Him Home” was one of those rare theatre moments where you could hear a pin drop. Magic. I could sit and listen to it over and over again. Beautiful.
If you’re not familiar with the story, Les Misérables is based on the novel by Victor Hugo and set in 19th-century France. It’s an epic tale of love, justice, sacrifice, and revolution, with unforgettable characters and one of the most iconic scores in musical theatre. Think “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” “One Day More,” and so many more. (Yes, you’ll be singing them all week.)
I left the theatre completely blown away. The standard was exceptional, and it made me feel so proud of the talent we have right here in the Midlands. If you get the chance to grab a ticket, do not hesitate, this show is something really special.
Les Misérables runs at The Alexandra from 10–14 June 2025. Book your tickets here: https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/bmos-presents-les-miserables-let-the-people-sing/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham/
Well done to the whole cast and crew – you absolutely smashed it.
Disclaimer: I was invited along to review the production on the press night performance.