Dec 3, 2015 2 min read

I recently saw “Les Misérables” at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School (LPPACS) in Midland.

Even before the show began, I could tell that I was in for a treat when I saw the set and projections that helped set the mood throughout the musical.

The story follows a prisoner, Jean Valjean (Zachary Mendola), who breaks parole and has to evade the relentless police inspector Javert (Ian Patterson), and all of the people he meets along his journey. Mendola, a first year music major at LPPACS, proved himself in the realm of musical theater with his astounding voice and portrayal of Valjean.

Not only did all of the main characters do an incredible job, the ensemble did, too. Every actor had their own part in bringing this story to life with their strong voices and acting skills. Their hard work paid off; during the show, I had to question if this was truly being done by students because it was done so professionally.

“Les Misérables” is a huge undertaking and not many high schools succeed in performing it. Congratulations to the cast and crew and director, Justin Fortunato, on a job extremely well done.

If you missed the opportunity to see this musical, come out to Lincoln Park to see any other shows that are being put on throughout the year. Other shows include “West Side Story,” “Cinderella: An Original Ballet,” “The Little Mermaid,” “The Crucible” and “The Lion King.”

By Julianna Ronto