This year’s school production at Prince Henry’s, Les Misérables (School Edition), played to more than 1000 people, with an extra show being added to fulfil demand for tickets. Every aspect of the production had students involved – from the talented cast and show band, to those working backstage, designing and operating the lighting and helping with sound, make up and costumes.

One of the world’s most iconic and longest-running musicals, Les Misérables tells the story of Jean Valjean. Victor Hugo’s classic tale is an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. With a magnificent score of iconic songs including “I Dreamed a Dream”, “On My Own”, “Bring Him Home”, “One Day More” and more, this epic and rousing story is undisputedly one of the world’s favourite musicals.

Audiences were hugely impressed by the talent shown by the students in every area.

“It was absolutely brilliant. I really enjoyed it. I can't believe the talent at the school.”

“We are writing to congratulate the school on the quality of the show, which was outstanding. We were so impressed by the complete involvement of everyone in the performance. It was clear that all the pupils were totally committed to the performance. The quality of the singing and playing by the orchestra were both so impressive, despite the nature of the music itself being quite challenging. The event will remain in our memory for a long time.”

“I felt compelled to write after Friday evening’s standing ovation- worthy performance of Les Misérables. It was an exceptional performance by exceptional young people.”

“The level of talent – acting, singing and in the orchestra – was incredible…at a new level once again!”

“So ambitious and nailed it. Fantastic orchestra, loved the clever set and lighting, beautiful performances and loved the ensemble moments. What a fantastic talented bunch.”

“The students (and staff) were incredible and so many performances blew me away. I was actually in tears at the end when Jean Valjean died! Please do pass on my congratulations to the cast as they really did the school proud.”

“AMAZING show.”

Parents and students also talked about how much the students had enjoyed performing.

“I loved every minute of that show. Definitely something I’ll never forget!”

“My son has loved every second of Les Mis. Thank you for the amazing opportunities you offer at PHGS.”

“[My son] has enjoyed being part of Les Mis so much and it has really given him so much confidence. We really appreciate all the hard work you have all put into the production - it was truly epic!”

Headteacher Sally Bishop said “Every year the students at Prince Henry’s amaze us with the talent they display in every area and every year the Performing Arts Faculty seem to raise the bar even further! With over 120 students involved alongside many of our staff, and parents and carers donating their professional skills, this really was a whole school production. The standing ovation on the last night was a well-deserved tribute to everyone. I have been involved in many school productions in my career, and the sheer standard of performance at Prince Henry’s really is astonishing. As the many amazing comments show, this has been a very special production which we will all remember for a very long time.”

Les Misérables (School Edition) was performed entirely by students. It is a musical by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg. School Edition special adaptation licensed by Music Theatre International and Cameron Mackintosh (Overseas) Limited.