Les Miserables - The Dream Cast in Concert

The 10th anniversary concert video of the international musical sensation Les Misérables might be the best thing to appease fans until a full-fledged movie comes along. Or it might be even better, as feature films are often subject to extramusical casting considerations and this 1995 dream cast is superb. Reprising their roles from the original London company are Colm Wilkinson (Valjean), Michael Ball (Marius), and Alun Armstrong (Thenardier). From Broadway come Judy Kuhn (Cosette), Lea Salonga (Eponine), and Michael Maguire (Enjolras); from a later London production comes Ruthie Henshall (Fantine); and from Australia comes Philip Quast (Javert).

Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg's score vividly captures the passion of Victor Hugo's epic tale of pre-Revolutionary France, combining tear-jerking ballads ("I Dreamed a Dream," "Bring Him Home") and rousing anthems ("Do You Hear the People Sing"). The format of this concert is closer to that of a dramatic cantata rather than a fully staged production; the singers stand at their microphone stands with an orchestra and chorus behind them, but they do wear costumes and participate in some movement. At certain points such as the climax of the barricade scene, the video switches to action from a stage production. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra sounds great, and it can be thrilling when 200 choristers (dressed in logo T-shirts) rise to their feet for a full-company number such as "One Day More." Also, subtitles provide date and scene information and help move the story along.

The 147-minute video contains footage not seen when Les Mis was a PBS pledge-drive staple, most notably the encore in which a progression of 17 actors who have played Valjean around the world share "Do You Hear the People Sing?" Each sings a line in his native language, a testament to the enduring power of this show to audiences everywhere. --David Horiuchi

The 10th anniversary of the international musical sensation Les Misérables is celebrated in this 1995 concert at London's Royal Albert Hall. The all-star cast features Colm Wilkinson (Valjean), Ruthie Henshall (Fantine), Michael Ball (Marius), Judy Kuhn (Cosette), Lea Salonga (Eponine), Philip Quast (Javert), and Alun Armstrong (Thenardier). Favorite songs from the Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg score include "Who Am I?", "I Dreamed a Dream," "Master of the House," "One Day More," "Do You Hear the People Sing?" and "Bring Him Home."

1 No, it's not the play but a concert, enjoy it for what it is
The music was spine tingling and the international Valjean's at the end of the the performance, lent a triumphal feeling to the concert. Eponine's song brought tears to your eyes. Some people believe this was suppose to be the actual play and may have been disappointed, however I realized this was a ten year celebration and was basically excerpts from the play in concert form.

I doubt if the actual play will ever be released on video, as the producers may wish to have revivals periodically. So enjoy the concert for what it is, a concert. It is well done and on a big screen TV with a good stereo system, you won't be disappointed.

So enjoy the concert

2 Excellent!
Les MisŽrables - what more can I say?

Once again, Jean Valjean, Javert, Eponine, Fantine, Marius and Cosette come back to life in this excellent concert.
From the moment 'Look Down' begins you are submerged into the dramatic, profund world of Victor Hugo, and that energy just keeps going all through classical Les Mis hits like 'At The End Of The Day', 'Castle On A Cloud', 'Master Of The House', 'On my Own' and 'Do You Hear The People Sing?'.

After the outstanding interpretation of the whole play, various 'Jean Valjean's from all over the world join British Colm Wilkinson in a once in a lifetime version of the finale song: 'Do You Hear The People Sing?'

Simply, Les Mis!

So, 'will you join in our crusade?'

3 If you can't have the best, settle for a close second.
Unfortunately, the only thing that out ranks seeing the musical on screen is seeing it onstage. I've gone to New York twice during my middle and high school years, and was part of my high schools cast when we put on the musical my senior year. Nothing will ever beat the thrill of seeing this musical come to life in front of you, the powerful voices of Val Jean and Javer, the pain of Eponine, and the determination of the students.

I found the movie to be excellent when I came across it on CPTV, and tried to find a blank tape to record it. Unfortunately that is lost, so I am going to buy it on here. The movie did an excellent job of going through all of the songs and included some scenes from the play, including set changes and parts of the songs that they would come to perform. The most spectacular part of the movie comes at the end with the Val Jeans from around the world come through the audience and onto the stage singing- "Do You Hear The People Sing", each in their native tongue. It is amazing how you can still get the feeling from the songs lyrics even through a different language. For anyone who has seen and loved the musical onstage, this is an excellent movie to remind you of the thrill of the musical now that it has closed on Broadway.

4 Wonderful
Get yourself surround sound, a wide screen TV and enjoy a beautiful and powerful musical.

5 Problem is that it's a concert
Now, I love Les Mis. I love seeing it, I love reading the novel, I love listening to the music for hours upon end. I bought this video in 7th or 8th grade because, well, it was Les Mis and most importantly Lea Salonga was in it.

I liked it back then, and I still like it now. But whenever I watch it, it feels horribly empty. Because, as people seem to agree, there is no acting. Oh, the actors try, they really do! But it's hard to act like you're dying when you're standing up and there's a giant microphone in front of your face. Musicals weren't meant to be seen close-up; you're not supposed to be able to see the performer's very expression. They apparently don't know what to do, and I don't blame them. So they either overact, underact, or do a little of each depending on what part it is.

It's a weird mixture to me. I would have rather they just done songs from Les Mis concert-style without the costumes and attempts to establish story and the same feelings you get while seeing it, than this crazy hybrid. Plus they cut a lot of the great songs. It was pretty upsetting to me. Either do the whole show or don't pretend like you are.

The costuming drove me nuts. The main characters were in costume, fine, but then you'd see the people behind them in Les Mis t-shirts and it really broke the mood. Also, in the beginning when Valjean is in Digne, you can see a very pristine white collar underneath his tattered prison outfit. That REALLY bothered me. Of course, I've never been a fan of Les Mis' costuming to begin with. Also, I REALLY wish they'd at least ATTEMPTED to make Colm Wilkinson age throughout the performance instead of looking old all along.

I also disagree with the term "the Dream Cast." People act like this is the end-all be-all of Les Mis recordings. It's really not. I'll go through and evaluate each performer:

Colm Wilkinson - People who apparently aren't too familiar with Colm's work bash him from this concert, and while it saddens me to say so if I'd only heard Colm's Valjean from this I wouldn't be a huge fan either. Apparently he was struggling (perhaps because of the whole concert thing) to find the perfect mixture between acting and singing, and many times crossed over into acting. So his voice was really quiet and raspy a lot, because he was trying to sound sad or desperate or whatever. I don't think, as others seem to, that he was "hamming it up" but it was most definitely not his best portrayal.

Phillip Quast - He tried, God bless him. While most of the time he was "eh" for me (because, again, of the whole lack of acting) but whenever he got the chance to shine, he never disappointed. Javert's Suicide and Stars, for instance, made me choked up.

Ruthie Henshall - Very good, though I don't think she's my favorite Fantine.

Skipping Gavroche and little Cosette as I never really cared about the performers that much

ThŽnardiers - Good, but not very memorable.

Michael Ball - Very good (I LOVE his Empty Chairs at Empty Tables), but I think he was too old to play Marius at that point. He just didn't look in his early twenties.

Lea Salonga - Oh, I feel horrible for saying this, but I don't like her much as Eponine. Eponine needs a character voice, and not pronounce everything perfectly. Lea's was too confident, too mature, too polished. Eponine is none of those things. Also, it bothered me how Eponine was Asian. Sorry, but it's true.

Judy Kuhn - Decent and undeniably cute, but not the best Cosette I've heard.

Michael MacGuirev - While he's usually good in Les Mis, in this performance he wasn't really. I think they should have gotten Warlow.

Essentially, the fact that they tried this crazy musical/concert hybrid ruined the entire thing. If you want to have Les Mis on video, go buy Hey! Mr. Producer and watch the Les Mis portion of it--no mics, no half-assed costuming, and best of all there's actually acting! It's the same cast too, except for Michael MacGuire, and Judy Kuhn are missing.

6 This DVD is a TRUE inspiration
I recieved this DVD 4 my 15th birthday, and it's actually what made me become a Les Mis fan, and now all I can say is that I am completety in love with this DVD!
Prologue- Is awesome! Not a favortie song because my attention was elsewhere, but I loved the song.
Valjean Arrested/Valjean Forgiven- I really enjoyed this song! Not because of Monaghan's performance (which was reason enough) but it was because of the acting that The Bishop, Jean Valjean, and even the two constables!
What Have I Done?- Valjean's first solo...and Colm Wilkinson does amazing.
I don't know what else 2 say about this DVD expect that I'm proud of the actors and crew for this production, and I thank it whole heartdely for giving me a newfound love for the stage production! And thanxs to it, I might make it a movie! So, in other words, folks...Whether your a musical fan or not. Buy this DVD!

7 Victor Hugo would be proud
The combination of a gorgeous score, a fabulous cast, and a fascinating staging concept make this about as near to perfection in a live performance as has ever been filmed. A combination of concert and musical play, the main actors are costumed, sometimes acting out their scenes, a few which have a skeleton set, the biggest being the brilliantly conceived rotating "barricade".
The Boublil and Schonberg score, with English lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer, is moving and melodic, and performed so well by "The Dream Cast" and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

The four male leads are outstanding, Colm Wilkinson/Jean Valjean, Alun Armstrong/Thenadier, and Michael Ball as Marius, and most of all Philip Quast as Javert. When Quast, who hails from the Australian cast (and looks a little like his fellow Aussie Russell Crowe) is on stage, he owns it; a powerful, charismatic performer with a terrific voice, he is riveting to watch and listen to. Of the many excellent women, Lea Salonga as Eponine shines the brightest.

Filmed in 1995 at the Royal Albert Hall, the final section (approximately 15 minutes) after the curtain calls is devoted to producer Cameron Mackintosh and others "behind the scenes", including Boubil and Schonberg, speaking to the audience, and 17 "Valjeans" from casts around the world, each singing a phrase in their language of origin, and DVD extras include interviews and bios. Approximate playing time is 160 minutes.
Victor Hugo would undoubtedly be proud of this inspired production based on his book...a book that has spawned so many dramatic films, so many casts of the musical show, and of all the many versions, it's hard to top this extraordinary accomplishment; it is "The Dream Les Miserables".

8 Wow
I thought it would be strange to just have the people sing and not really do the whole musical, but just seeing their faces and costumes adds so much that you never get just fanatically listening to the cds and waiting for the show to come to town again. I'd never seen Philip Quast or heard him do Javert, and I used to prefer Allam of the London cast, but now I am completely infatuated with Quast's portrayal. Javert is the best character ever invented and Quast is amazing in it. The Javert always makes or breaks the show, in my opinion. Quast is emotional in the role, but not overly. Just perfect. And naturally, Wilkinson is great. Loved his Phantom as well. If you are a Phantom fan as well - check out the original Canadian cast. You know, on this DVD, even the guy who accuses Fantine of outright attacking him is good. You'll love it!

9 This is the Les Miserables show...in concert.
This is simply amazing. I was blown away by everything. The point outs are Michael Ball and Phillp Quast. If you haven't seen this, I suggest it. Highly. I mean it.

10 Les Miserables Makes History..Well That Was A While Ago
This clearly is the best Les Miz thing ever!!! This is a superb concert. Everyone should at least try to rent it somewhere. I beggeth all of you!!!!!!!

11 The Most Amazing Les Miz Performance
Ok Let me just say that this is my favorite show, and will forever be. The cast, including Phillip Quast, and Colm Wilkinson are my favorite Val Jean and Javert, and portray the roles amazingly. Lea Salogna was the most fabulous Eponine on earth, Ruthie Henshall does amazing acting in the role of Fantine, she did a terrific job of singing the tear jerking ballot I Dreamed a Dream. Let me just say that Michael Ball is amazing aas Marius, he is adorable and sings it perfectly. And my favorite role in the show, Monsieur Thenardier, played by Alun Armstrong, of hte London Company is absolutly the best Thenardier that walked the earth. And in the song Castle on a Cloud, near the end a light drops..It does not hurt anyone, but the little girl who plays Young Cosette flinches and keeps on performing, a true performer. It is absolutly delightful being able to watch people perform the music, instead of just listening to it. It a great present for anybody who likes the show. It is my favorite DVD that I own.

12 Truly a DREAM CAST!!
What an awesome DVD this was... Great peformances starting with Ruthie Henshall's beautiful portrayal of Fantine, and hand in hand with Colm Wilkinson's Valjean... Michael Ball is also great! What was enthralling is Lea Salonga's performance as Eponine... simply sublime... I never really liked the old version of Eponine which was weakly, and scrappy, and i didnt care for... Lea truly delivers the true Eponine, which the audince can capture and care for.... Every note she sang is filled with emotions especially in 'On My Own'... or "A Heart Full of Love".. you can feel the unrequitedness of love.. and Eponine doesnt appear weak and scrappy... and "A Little Fall of Rain".. if you dont tear up from that performance then I don't know what I can say about you... simply amazing, super-sad, super emotional!!! This DVD is great.. love Les Mis!

13 I love this DVD!
This is the best recording of this memorable musical and I watch it over and over again. Truly, this has the dream cast. Everyone is great! Special mention goes to Lea Salonga, the ONLY Eponine actor I've seen who has a full grasp of the humanity of Eponine. She performs with so much emotion, that the character Eponine becomes a force to contend with -- she does not interpret it as some pathetic weakling that anyone can just relegate as insignificant garbage (i.e., Frances Ruffelle, Kaho Shimada, Diana Kaarina, and Sutton Foster's versions). Plus Salonga's beautiful voice is simply so captivating that one can't help but rush to her side when she shows her pain!
One reviewer said that Les Mis "is a difficult musical to perform because the intricate story and the character's feelings and motivations are communicated to the audience by the interpretation of the lyrics." Salonga shows that with with a "full grasp of the delicate weaving of acting and singing that is necessary here," the role can be delivered perfectly. Bravo to everyone in this recording!

14 Simply Amazing
For any Les Mis fan this is a must have. Of all the recordings I have ever heard this video truly has the best performances. I only wish I could get this on a cd. The performance of Lea S. as Eponine is the best I've heard and put together with the other performances on here it is the only version that truly satisfies me anymore. For anyone who loves Les Miserables this is the video I recommend to you.

15 THE definitive recording!
With a stellar cast backed up by more than 200 strong voices and a wonderful orchestra, this concert has so much power that you'll stay glued to your seat 'till the end. The quality of the performances is topnotch (as expected from the aptly described Dream Cast) and the atmosphere is as exciting as can be.

[The most notable performance, as many reviewers have pointed out, is from Tony and Olivier winner Lea Salonga, whose outstanding interpretation (right combination of dejection and bitterness; the great emotive voice is, of course, already a given) has provided the character Eponine the attention it deserves. Unfortunately for Frances Ruffele (whose non-stellar presence matched by her whiney, squeaky voice that leaves much to be desired kept this charming character out of the spotlight), comparisons are inevitable and her fans will have to content themselves with EXCUSES that Eponine is not a beautiful character and therefore deserves an ugly voice.]

If you want the complete score, definitely get the Complete Symphonic Recording (which also has a good cast). If you want attention-grabbing performances, however, this is the album to get!

16 Excellent!
I had the fortune of watching this live (in addition to seeing the show on Broadway and listening to the various recordings). All I can say is that it's GREAT! Colm Wilkinson and Michael Ball are good, as usual, but the biggest revelation is Lea Salonga, whose acting and singing are far superior to any actor who has ever attempted to do Eponine (infinitely better than Frances-whatever-her-name-is on the London and Broadway recordings); she is the PERFECT Eponine.

Aside from the excitement of hearing the performances "live," an interesting feature of this recording is the inclusion of the different male leads from Les Mis productions all over the world in a special number. THIS is the definitive recording for Les Miserables and the one that you should get! (Don't waste your money on "rough drafts" such as the Broadway and London recordings!)

17 Wonderful
I absolutley love this I grew up watching it on PBS it is excellent. Although the actual show is better this is Les Miserables IN CONCERT so all those people that were expecting it to be the actual show should have paid closer attention

18 A must for all Les Miz Fans!
This DVD is a wonderful addition to any fan's collection because of the beauty of the performances. This is not a stage production but a concert, so the singers stand at a microphone in costume with a little bit of arm movement and torso movement every once in a while, and there are stage doubles on a different stage and every so often the camera shows the doubles so that you can get a feel as to what it looks like on stage (e.g. Prologue, Runaway Cart, Do You Hear the People Sing, the music before Dog Eat Dog). The performances are absolutely stunning, and you will want to watch this DVD over and over again! There are cast members from all over the world in the Dream Cast Choir, which is about 200 people singing in Les Mis tee shirts!

Colm Wilkinson (London, Broadway) returns to play the role of Jean Valjean and does a wonderful job singing his part. "Confrontation" and "What Have I done" are my personal favorites of his. Philip Quast (Australia) plays the part of Javert. He does a wonderful job in everything that he sings and may be the best male singer on the stage. He has a wonderful stage presence and puts lots of emotion into such songs as "Confrontation," "Stars," and "Soliloquy." He will send shivers down your back! Such a gorgeous voice! Ruthie Henshall plays Fantine. She is my favorite Fantine because she has such a powerful voice! It is amazing that she can put so much emotion into her part. "Come to Me," "I dreamed a dream," and "Finale" are my favorites.

Alun Armstrong and Jenny Galloway have good chemistry, and the whole cast sings along to "Master of the House." It is fun to watch everyone singing and swaying and smiling on stage. Lea Salonga, Ruthie Henshall, and Judy Kuhn seem to really be enjoying themselves! Hannah Chick is a great Young Cosette, and Adam Searles is a good Gavroche (although not my favorite- he was 13 at the time this was made- too old I think). Michael Ball and Judy Kuhn are wonderful as the two lovers.

Lea Salonga is one of the best Eponines out there because she has such a solid and beautiful voice. Michael Maguire is my favorite Enjolras because he puts so much power into his part! Simply marvelous!

There is an encore with 17 Valjeans from around the world singing in their native languages that cannot be missed! The only thing I regret is there are few bonus features on this DVD- I think they should have interviews and "making of" segments! Also, you have to flip the dvd over to see act II, which is annoying. I know they could have fit it onto one disc because I have seen longer movies plus bonus features on one disc. But a great dvd nonetheless. You need to get it! Don't wait!

19 First timer, strongly opinionated..
This was my first time seeing or hearing anything Les Mis so i went in there unbiased, with nothing to compare to. I found out later that a lot of the show was missing, but whatever, i still have opinions on each of the leads. First off, I think this is a great introduction to the music of the show, because it has some of the best voices around singing one of the best shows around. However, if you can, go out and see the show first, cause you dont get any of the staging of it--its just a concert, mic stands and all. No set, there is lighting (very effective and beautiful i must say) but no set. Anyway, on to my opinion of the performers.
This is absolutely amazing! I was a bit iffy about the lack of acting and set however all doubts went away within the first five minutes. Let's go through the characters and heap praise and a tiny bit of criticizm:

--Colm Wilkinson (Jean Valjean): I honestly disliked his portrayal of Valjean greatly. I hated how at the end of every high note he would release with a high pitched falsetto yelp, it became very irritating. Also, he hammed up everything so Valjean became a one-sided character with no emotion, just trying to look profound with every word he said. He ended up looking rediculous, and sounding the same way. But man, can that guy hit those high notes. I know, im a tenor and that stuff is hard.

--Philip Quast (Javert): Absolutely amazing, stunning, perfect. I have nothing bad to say about him. He captured the character and portrayed it perfectly with every facial expression, every gesture. The points where he spoke the words rather than singing were perfectly placed. Simply amazing.

--Ruthie Henshall (Fantine): Ruthie was far better than the original broadway Fantine, Randy Graff. I love the tone of her voice, how it is throaty but when she gets into the higher notes she has a beautiful head voice. Her break between head and chest voice is seamless, and when she belts out some of those notes, she captures the essence of the tortured character that fantine is.

--Jenny Galloway (Mme. Thenardier): Absolutely priceless. I laughed and laughed at her performance. I just wish she had sang more!

--Alun Armstrong (Thenardier): Wow first saw him in braveheart, now I found out that he can sing and hes hilarious! If i hadnt seen this guy do Thenardier, i would not have spent time learning all the words to Master of the House so i could sing along and act it out. Boy is that song fun!

--Lea Salonga (Eponine): She was very good, but i was not overly impressed with her. I like her better than Frances Ruffele, and she acts the part well, but once again, i am not impressed.

--Michael Ball (Marius): Ok, many people do not like Marius because he is a one-sided loverboy character. I saw this DVD, saw Ball play Marius, and instantly fell in love with the part. His versions of A Little Fall of Rain (with Lea Salonga) and Empty Chairs at Empty Tables left me with tears in my eyes and my jaw wide open. I could not believe how true to the emotion of the songs he was, and how beautiful and powerful his voice was. I think he, along with Philip Quast, is one of the strongest and most impressive performers in this production.

--Michael Maguire (Enjolras): Theres a word a harsh critic friend of mine likes to use for stuff he doesnt like in shows: atrocious. Michael Maguire's performance was atrocious. The first time he started singing, i laughed, but he is not a comic character. His voice was annoying, throaty, and he could not hit the notes. He just sounded like he was yelling all the time.

--Judy Kuhn (Cosette): Beautiful voice, but unlike Michael Ball, she did not put enough emotion into this seemingly empty character. It is a hard character to play--ditsy lovers are always hard to play. Ironic.

--Anthony Crivello (Grantaire): People can easily overlook this character, but this guy was perfect. I did my homework on the different roles in the show, and Crivello perfectly captures this drunk's low level of self esteem. You can hear in his voice the lack of self worth and questioning of his existence, simply grand.

--Overall it is a good production. There are some bad apples here and there. Bottom line: Michael Ball, Philip Quast, Alun Armstrong, Jenny Galoway, Ruthie Henshall: Great. Colm Wilkinson, Michael Maguire: Bad. The rest: Good. Many im sure will disagree with my opinion, but thats life. Its one of the greatest shows in the history of musical theatre, i still suggest you buy this dvd just to witness the grand scale of the production. Now i gotta get ready for auditions for my school's producition of Les Miserables.

20 Absolutely Exquisite
This is absolutely amazing! I was a bit iffy about the lack of acting and set however all doubts went away within the first five minutes. Let's go through the characters and heap praise and a tiny bit of criticizm:

Colm Wilkinson (Jean Valjean): This preformance was magnificent! Colm Wilkinson does so well with the part of JVJ. "Bring Him Home" was breathtaking! He could've done with not sliding up to the high notes but then again those notes are extremely difficult. Great job!

Philip Quast (Javert): One word describes it all: Perfect. His voice, unlike Terrence Mann, whom some people claim to be the best, is clear and resonant. You can hear every syllable he utters with absoloute clarity. His rendidtion of "Stars" was beautiful and the look on his face at the end of the song encompasses all that Javert is. There is no other Javert but Philip Quast.

Ruthie Henshall (Fantine): I loved this! She is great! Frances Ruffele is shamed by Ruthie. She is a beautiful girl and has a very pretty voice.

Jenny Galloway (Mme. Thenardier): Hahaha! I was splitting my sides laughing! She is perfect, the way her voice sounds good and yet vile all in one soundwave. She could've sung a little lounder with the "I used to dream I would meet a prince..." and "there's not much there." but otherwise, good job.

Alun Armstrong (Thenardier): He is great! The only Thenardier that I've seen who could rival him is Nick Wyman. There's not much to be said but just watch and you'll see how perfect he is.

Lea Salonga (Eponine): Beautiful! Stunning! She is the one and only Eponine. All Cosette-lovers will be turning to Eponine's side after this performance. "On My Own" was fabulous!

Michael Ball (Marius): One again, great! No wonder this is the Dream Cast! "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" was perfect: it fully portrayed Marius's grief at the time! If only they took this cast and taped the actual stage production with them.

Michael Maguire (Enjolras): Okay, maybe he was a little nasal with his voice and missed a few notes here and there, but how can this guy play this part badly? He LOOKS like Enjolras, he has the ATTITUDE of Enjolras, the DETERMINATION of Enjoras, and in a former life this guy probably WAS Enjolras!

Judy Kuhn (Cosette): She has a lovely voice, but I wasn't a fan of the whole "La Carlotta" aura about it. Cosette is a difficult character to like and to sing the part of well, and Judy did her best. Ah well.

Anthony Crivello (Grantaire): Come on. All he needed was a whiskey bottle and he would've been perfect.

21 A Dream Come True
I have never seen Les Miserables before onstage but own almost every Les Mis cd and book imaginable along with alot of Les Mis movies and in my opinon this DVD is well worth it's pricetag...when I first bought I thought it was going to be the show onstage...

But is simply the actors in costume onstage singing...and you occasional do see some action scences...

Les Miserables fans it has all our favorites and the best of the best performers from the worldwide hit musical including Michael Ball and Colm Wilkson Les Miserables fans! Watching it is like watching absolute magic onstage...

My favorite part is at the end when Jean Valjean's from across the world from Norway to the USA all sing onstage together followed by fireworks and bows...this DVD is a treasure for all Les Mis fans evrywhere!

22 Magnificient performance
First I want to apologize for my writing, I'm form The Netherlands and I'm not write often in English.
After I heard the dutch version of Les Miserables, I bought this DVD en was overwelmed. The voices of the main characters are great, at the top the voice of Jean Valjean.
The cast is great and the choir wonderful. I must seer (or hear) the music of this DVD at least once a week.
I want to recommend it to everyone who loves musicals.

23 LEA IS AMAZING!
This DVD is amazing! Les Miserables is truly one of the best musicals ever made! DREAM CAST INDEED.

EPONINE (Lea Salonga): I can understand how some people had a hard time adjusting to her rendition of "On My Own" after getting used to Francis Ruffelle's subdued, weak, sad and miserable portrayal of the character of Eponine. "On My Own" has always been sung in a very slow, soft, sad and pitiful manner, and with Lea's powerful and emotional performance, many people had a hard time adjusting to a very interesting interpretation of the character of Eponine. Lea Salonga sang it the way it should be sang --- starting with a bitter note with the words "without a home, without a friend..." and began the song itself with such lightness and hopefulness (On my own I dream that he's beside me) and began to belt out the powerful words of the song "and I know it's only in my mind..." with such angry and desperate force. She sang the song in TOTAL perfection, in my opinion. SHE MADE THE SONG HER OWN.

Some may argue that her voice is too pretty for the role, but I do believe that she captured all the emotions needed for the character. Her voice was not lost in the operatic voices of the other characters, it actually stood out.

"A Little Fall of Rain" was one of the highlights of the concert. The angelic voice of Lea Salonga blended with the godly voice of Michael Ball, aahhhh, PERFECT! The way Lea Salonga sang the song was phenomenal. She sang the song with so much pain, yet with so much love.

Other reviews of Lea Salonga were quite harsh, but still, there are so many more people who loved her performance in this concert. She worked hard to get this role meant for a Caucasian woman, as she used to fear that she might not get it because she is ASIAN. Having her play the part of Eponine broke many barriers and even surpassed many expectations. Let us just give her credit for that.

24 STUNNING
Absolutely stunning. If you are a Les Mis fanatic, you have not lived until you see this. Watching this ultimate "dream cast" is almost as good as watching the Broadway performance. Enough praise cannot be uttered for Colm Wilkinson - he is THE Jean Valjean, and can never be upstaged. The power & expression from this man is just unbelievable. When he is enraged, you are angry. When he is upset, you feel his pain. His "Bring Him Home" literally brought tears to my eyes. The duets between JVJ and Javert (Philip Quast) were also fantastic. Quast's best moment was in "Javert's Suicide" - utter desperation was exactly what was portrayed. Ruthie Henshall (Fantine) was magnificent, her voice is beautiful. Michael Ball (Marius) was absolutely wonderful, especially in "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables". Michael Maguire (Enjolras) thoroughly impressed me by turning a smaller part into a strong and admirable role. The Thenardiers - hilarious, especialle Madame (Jenny Galloway). Young Cosette was adorable, but even moreso was Gavroche. The best part? The finale - 17 JVJ's from all over the world, led in by multicultural Gavroches, singing a line of "Do You Hear the People Sing?" in their native tongues. The amount of talent in these 17 men is just indescribable - you have to hear it. Stunning, I tell you.

25 Magnificent
This is a concert rather than the play but it's not a deficiency as it gives yet another perspective on one of the greatest plays ever to go on-stage. I have yet to spin this DVD without hearing someone say that he or she would give anything to have been in the audience that night.

26 Broadway Perfection!!!
I laughed, I cried, and I have never seen a play quite like this before. This story has changed my life and has encouraged me loose 123 pounds. I was a fat hairy man weighing in at 459 pounds and now I am down to a slim 326. I reccomend this to anybody.

27 ALMOST a dream cast
The is no doubt that all these people are amazingly talented and that this is definatly a near dream cast. It would be a dream cast if Tony Award winner Sutton Foster had sung for Eponine. Lea Solango is great...but no one in this world is as AMAZING as Sutton Foster. If you have heard her sing on my own you know there is no comparison to any Eponine EVER before. This is a Great show with a Great cast of people but everything would be better with Sutton Foster.

28 This Concert is Awesome
O.k, for the most part, this concert is the dreamcast. In fact, in order to make sure they sound good, they don't actually act on stage. They're literally standing on the stage in front of a microphone to make sure that their voices are most effective.
The problem: There are some unreal voices in this concert, mixed with some o.k. ones. Fantine's voice is unbeivable, Calm Wilkonson's as well and Marius's sound alone will give you chills. I agree with another reviewer on Cosette, (on my own) she pronounces her words too much and I think her voice is too all-american rather than fitting with the characters in the play. Not that she's not a good singer, but.. kinda ruins it.
So you have both spectrums in this, incredible and mediocre in terms of the fact that they're the dream crowd. But in all, when you put a choir with hundreds of people in the backround mixed with all these professional singers, you still have an incredible concert. If you can get a good deal, it's worth the money.

29 Total Enjoyment!
For some odd reason, I have never thought much about the Broadway musical, Les MisŽrables until our local High School decided to do the School Edition this year. With this, I have not only read the book, but first purchased the 10th year CD and then rented the DVD! I am now Hooked on the musical!

The problem is, not only is the DVD out of print, but a long awaited re-release has been postponed (apparantly)!

How do we let the producers of this DVD know that they should get this new version out?

This performance is too incredible to even attempt to desribe!

30 OUT OF THIS WORLD
WHEN I SAW THE BROADWAY SHOW I WAS IN THE FRONT ROW AND I ALREADY HAD MEMORIZED THE WORDS TO IT. I STILL LISTEN TO IT EVERY WEEKEND AND CRY EVERY TIME. I AM A FAN OF COLM WILKISON,I HAVE ALL OF HIS MUSIC. HIS VOICE IS BEAUTIFUL. I CANNOT WAIT UNTIL THE DVD COMES OUT SO I CAN SEE IT AGAIN. I HAVE MOVED AWAY FROM NEW YORK SO I WON'T GET TO SEE THE SHOW LIVE ANYMORE. IT WAS ONE OF MY BEST MUSUCALS THAT I HAD SEEN ON BROADWAY.
JILL

31 Gives New Meaning to the Word, "Goosebumps"
This 10th anniversary concert made my month.

Javert was absolutely incredible. Chills ran up and down my spine whenever he sang. I can't even handle it. His performance was perfect in every way and I could just fast forward to his parts over and over again and never get tired of it.

Fantine and Eponine were also astoundingly wonderful. I don't think I'll ever accept anyone else in those parts again. It's a shame really. I've been spoiled by their perfect voices.

Marius had to grow on me. I loathed him at first but after seeing the concert, I've had a change of heart and come to respect and appreciate his voice.

I really don't like Judy Kuhn as Cosette although I love Judy Kuhn in 'Pocahontas.' Maybe it's just the music she has to sing.

Enjolras, the Thenardiers, and, of course, Valjean, and everyone else were excellent. Although the musical is not acted out, it remains gripping, passionate, and emotionally exhausting. And just when you think you can't take anymore bliss, all the Valjeans from around the world sing an encore and it's just indescribable. Excellent.

32 The Dream Cast
I absolutely loved Les Miserables in Concert. Even though the actors weren't actually acting out the scenes, the singing was still incredible.

I don't think they could have picked a better array of talent to be on that stage than they did. The irriplaceable Colm Wilkinson returned as Jean Valjean--the character he created in the London and Broadway premieres. Ruthie Henshall was a wonderful Fantine and in my opinion, 'I Dreamed a Dream' was one of the best songs in the show. Lea Solanga sang beautifully as usual, playing the love sick and ignored Eponine. Michael Ball. Wow. What more can I say about him? He was, as always, incredible. I wish I could have seen him in the original London production of Les Mis! I am glad that I at least own the original London cast CD of Les Mis so that I can hear how he sounded then compared to now.

The children, Hannah Chick (young Cosette) and Adam Searles (Gavroche) were terrific. There was one point in Young Cosette's song, Castle on a Cloud, when you could hear a loud bang, but being the professional that she is, she kept going, even though you could tell that she definitely heard it.

Judy Kuhn (Cosette) did a wonderful job as well, but there were times when it sounded as if she was a little sharp. I think that this role makes her strain her voice a little. I know she was in the original Broadway production, but over the years, one's voice changes and I think you can tell that has happened with her. Other than that, she did a wonderful job with most of the songs.

Michael Maguire was terrfic as Enjorlas. He is such an incredible singer (not to mention very tall--I think he's taller than the rest of the cast!) and that was proven in 'Do You Hear the People Sing?' and 'Red and Black'.

Philip Quast is truly wonderful as Javert, the policeman after Valjean. His singing cannot be matched, especially in the song where he plummets to his death.

Alun Armstrong was simply hilarious. He does a wonderful job of making a complete fool out of Thenardier (which the character is). Jenny Galloway is also very funny as Madame Thendardier. Their duet, 'Beggar at the Feast' was so funny that I had tears in my eyes! They are rather convincing (even though it's only a concert, one can only imagine what it is like on an actual stage).

So, if you loved the London and Broadway productions or just love Les Miserables, go and buy this version. It may not be an actual performance, but it is well worth the purchase just to see such wonderful talent on stage.

33 A must Have for the theater lover.
The intricate use of acting out songs in a concert setting brought the entire DVD to life. Outstanding performers and memorable songs. GET IT!

34 Tres Magnigique!
This is a must for any musical theatre buff.I love it because it has all the greazt songs from"Le Miz!"Colm Wilkinson, the first Jean Valjean in London AND on Broadway,stars as Valjean,alongside Lea Salonga,Patti Lupone and a host of great singers.The ending is spectacular-Jean Valjeans from 28 countries sing"When Tomorrow Comes,"each in his own language!DON'T wait 'til tomorrow comes-order now!"At the End of the Day" you'll be glad you did.

35 Great!
Love this concert! Lea Salonga is as perfect as Eponine as she is as Miss Saigon's Kim. Wonderful to watch over and over again!

36 Grand, epic, over-the-top concert!
This is the most amazing concert I have ever seen! The all-star cast, featuring singers from around the world, put on an excellent performance. One man tops them all: COLM WILKINSON. The greatest voice the world has ever known.

If there is such a thing as perfect - This is it!

37 Excellent BUT?.
Whilst there is no faulting Les Miserable 10th anniversary concert and it is indeed a Dream Cast, I was expecting to enjoy the huge choir and symphony orchestra in SUROUND SOUND seeing as it was on DVD.

But DVD was just the same as video, Stereo sound. Even so, I still voted 5 stars

Little Cosette should be commended, in the middle of her song there was a bang (Which you could see she was aware of) but she kept on singing. It showed true professionalism for one so young.

38 I LOVE IT I LOVE IT I LOVE IT!!!
The first time I saw the TAC, I was expecting an actual play... with acting. I was a little disappointed to find out it was just the cast standing at microphones, singing. But the music was so fantastic and the actors were so incredible that it more than compensated for the lack of scenery. As far as I'm concerned, Colm Wilkinson IS Jean Valjean. Phillip Quast was an amazing Javert. Judy Kuhn has the perfect voice for Cosette, high and clear. Lea Salonga is the greatest Eponine EVER!! All of Eponine's emotion really comes through in her voice. She can be angry one minute and tender the next. I much prefer her strong, clear voice to Frances Ruffelle's childish, whiny voice. Michael Ball suits the role of Marius to a T, but I was continually cracking up at his habit of making odd "happy faces" at inappropriate moments. My one gripe was with Michael Maguire's voice. He sounds brilliant in a lower key, but when he sings higher notes, his voice sounds really nasal, and gets to be kind of grating after a while. This is my favorite recording that I've heard so far. I would definitely recommend it to any Mis fan!

39 LONG LIVE LES MISERABLES...THEN..NOW AND FOREVER!
I am truly heartbroken that the greatest and most beloved broadway musical of all time has in fact has made it's last curtain call and is now closed forever... Les Miserables it will be truly missed. I hope soon that their will be a full length dvd of a les miserables perfomace live in all it's crown and glory. But i guess this is the next best thing right and it is amazing..this dvd has the best cast the dream cast of the 1995 run doing a pbs special live. if you are a true les miserables fan get this dvd. a great reminder of the greatest musical that ever garced the world stage. I was lucky enought to see this broadway masterpiece.
when I was in the 8th grade at my school in HI there was a contest. A school wide contest to see a broadway musical called Les Miserables. I begged my teacher who was doing the contest to at least consider me as an alternate. So she did in case one of the winners could not make it than and only than i could go. But no one canceled an dthe night of teh performance was getting closer and closer. SO i thought there was no way i could go. until a day before the date of the musical. I got a call saying that one of the contestants didn't want to go and would be with drawing her name from the contest and that if i wanted i could go to the musical.

I am so happy i indeed got to go to see this amazing breathtaking musical live in person in all it's glory. For the first and only time. It was the musical that started a passion for the thearthre in my life.

I got to see the best cast the dream cast live in person. It was the most incredible moment and touching hours of my of my life. The power of their voices and performances. the music.. the sets it was magnificent. I laughed and cried and just yelled BRAVA..BRAVO!!!!

40 A Combination of All the Greatest Performers
This Les Miserables DVD is excellent. If you enjoy the broadway show, you should definitely get it. All the performers are excellent. I really have no criticism about any performers.

The only disappointing thing to me is that it does not include every song. (Such as the scene where Marius bumped into Cosette, Robbery and Javert's Intervention, Gavroche's death, etc.) Some songs were shortened.

The Complete Symphonic Recording version includes everything, but it is still not as good as this one.

41 Les Miserables at its BEST!
This is a must-have to any collection, especially if you're a musical fan. Les Miserables has got to be one of the, if not THE best musical in the world. This concert is truly has a dream cast and is one of the most cleverly made performances, mixing drama into an actual live concert.

Colm Wilkinson - What more can you say about him. As mentioned before, he is THE Jean Valjean.
Philip Quast - First time I've seen him is in this concert and he is amazing. Fits the cold character of Javert to a T! His two solos were perfect!
Alun Armstrong - The original Thenardier, he is one of my favorites. I haven't seen many Thenardier's I actually like, but I think he plays the part very well.
Michael Ball - The original Marius and again, he is THE Marius. He has a truly beautiful voice. His highlight was "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables".
Ruthie Henshall - First time I've seen her also and I loved her too. I thought that the original London Fantine, Patti LuPone had a beautiful voice, but I think that Ruthie did wonderfully in the concert, loved "I Dreamed A Dream" and "Come To Me".
Lea Salonga - My favorite character played by the PERFECT Eponine. Her voice is one of the best I've ever heard! I prefer her smooth, clear voice to Frances Ruffelle's high, whiny voice.
Judy Kuhn - Not the best Cossette, but did a good job. Liked her singing lower songs like in Pocahontas.
Michael Maguire - A good choice for Enjolras, not his best performance, but I enjoyed it.
Hands down, the best songs in the performance were the whole company songs and "On My Own" by Eponine.
This is an item you MUST GET! You'll watch it over and over!

42 Les Miserables at its best!
This is a must-have to any collection, especially if you're a musical fan. Les Miserables has got to be one of the, if not THE best musical in the world. This concert is truly has a dream cast and is one of the most cleverly made performances, mixing drama into an actual live concert.

Colm Wilkinson - What more can you say about him. As mentioned before, he is THE Jean Valjean.

Philip Quast - First time I've seen him is in this concert and he is amazing. Fits the cold character of Javert to a T! His two solos were perfect!

Alun Armstrong - The original Thenardier, he is one of my favorites. I haven't seen many Thenardier's I actually like, but I think he plays the part very well.

Michael Ball - The original Marius and again, he is THE Marius. He has a truly beautiful voice. His highlight was "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables".

Ruthie Henshall - First time I've seen her also and I loved her too. I thought that the original London Fantine, Patti LuPone had a beautiful voice, but I think that Ruthie did wonderfully in the concert, loved "I Dreamed A Dream" and "Come To Me".

Lea Salonga - My favorite character played by the PERFECT Eponine. Her voice is one of the best I've ever heard! I prefer her smooth, clear voice to Frances Ruffelle's high, whiny voice.

Judy Kuhn - Not the best Cossette, but did a good job. Liked her singing lower songs like in Pocahontas. "In My Life" was well-done.

Michael Maguire - A good choice for Enjolras, not his best performance, but I enjoyed it. He led the singers very well in "Red and Black" and "Do You Hear the People Sing".

Hands down, the best songs in the performance were the whole company songs and my personal fave: "On My Own" by Lea Salonga.
This is an item you MUST GET! You'll watch it over and over!

43 Not the same as seeing it live
This is worth viewing if you love the musical. It may be the "dream cast" to some people, but many great performers who have starred in Les Mis were not featured in this video. I would have liked to see Frances Ruffelle as Eponine, and Leo Burmester who is the best Thenardier. Luckily, Michael Maguire who plays a great Enjolras is in the video. And, of course, the great Colm Wilkinson is in it.
It's a must to listen to the soundtrack on CD (there are different recordings, and the original Broadway cast is wonderful) as the sound quality is better than in this video.

44 quite simply the best
This is, to me, indisputably the best Les Miserables recording made. The cast is superb, and the fact that it's live, in front of an audience instead of in a serile recording studio gives the performances extra life that you won't get elsewhere. Wilkinson is always a superlative Valjean, Quast plays Javert with flinty brilliance, and Ruthie Henshall is unsprpassed as Fantine. Having the DVD is a great bonus, getting to see the actors' faces and costumes makes the production more real. Though there is no blocking to speak of (it's very much a concert: folks stand in front of mics) and the show is not performed in its entirety (it's mostly complete, but is missing some in-between stuff, mostly recitative), this is the closest thing you can get to seeing the show on stage. Because it is a concert, the sound quality is not perhaps "digital" best, but that is a minor drawback.

45 Les Miserables The Concert
This concert is the best I have seen in many years. The cast is extraordinary. Colom Wilkenson and Michael Ball lead an outstanding group of actors in a rendition of the show that will never be seen again. I was star struck by how the music takes you through the story. It is the absolute best

46 My favorite musical in a breathtaking performance
Wow! This is a fantastic performance of a wonderful musical given by an array of beautiful voices and an outstanding orchestra.

To detail the entire script would take far more time than the reader is willing to engage to decide whether or not to make this purchase. If you are familiar with the story, and you like orchestral music, I have every confidence this DVD will prove pleasing to the ears. This is one that I know I'll be enjoying time and again.

47 The Les Miserables Concert
This is an excellent DVD for Les Miserables enthusiasts. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT, buy this if you are just trying to learn about the musical. It is a marvelous score with genuinely genius lyrics but it can also get rather long to those unaccustomed to sung-through musicals. For the dedicated fan but an excellent purchase any way you look at it. Colm Wilkinson as Valjean, Philip Quast as Javert, Michael Ball as Marius and Lea Salonga as Eponine are the four major standouts. Truly the Dream Cast!

48 Quite Simply the Best!
This is the best recording of the best cast in the best performance of the best musical I have ever seen! You get the picture! While I would not suggest this for those who have not seen the musical before (some scenes were omitted, which may cause confusion for those unfamiliar with the story), for anyone who loves this musical, I cannot imagine a better recording being available now or in the future. This cast is as good as it gets! There is not a single major character that is not portrayed better than in any other performance of Les Mis I have ever seen (and I've seen a few!). In most cases, it's not even close! Despite this being a "concert" production (i.e., the performers standing stationary behind a microphone) rather than true theater, the quality, emotion and intensity of the performances more than makes up for any lack of physical acting. Having a full orchestra and chorus on stage backing the cast is also a really nice touch. I also love the bonus footage in which a dozen or more men who have portrayed Jean Valjean in productions around the world all come onstage to sing "Do You Hear the People Sing?" together, each in his native language! Unforgettable! This is a recording I will always treasure and hope to share with my children and grandchildren!

49 Great performances, not so great DVD production
Got the DVD in with great anticipation. Having previously watched this concert production of Les Miserables on VHS, I had high expectations of improved audio and video with the DVD. In this regard, I have been somewhat disappointed.

The conversion from analog to digital to produce the DVD caused far more video quirks than I have seen in any DVD - artifacts, washed out details, unusual dithering patterns, blurry still pictures, etc. The audio also does not live up to my expectations for a DVD - pops, clicks, and strange sound variations including drop-outs.

One other irritating oddity - a true "two-sided" DVD. This means you have to take it out, flip it over, and re-insert it in your player. With the common availability of dual layer DVD's of high capacity, the need to flip this disk over to play the entire production is an inconvenience.

The performances contained in the disk are overall superb and do an honor to Boublil and Schoneberg's musical. It is unfortunate that the recording quality is not up to the performer's level.

Now, as harsh as I have been on the production of the DVD, I cannot imagine a true LesMisarables fan not having this DVD in their collection, although don't expect it to be better than the VHS.

50 Big disappointment - know before you buy.
First of all, I am an enormous fan of this musical and have seen it several times in different countries. The performance itself in this DVD is great in terms of quality, singing, and musicianship. I have no real complaints there. So why the low rating? The problem is the very concept of the DVD. It's rubbish, an extremely incomplete package to fleece the fans of the musical - and nowhere near the experience that is Les Miserables. I bought it believing it was the actual show.

It's nothing like it at all, it's a concert in which the performers statically stand at at their microphones in front of an audience. It has none of the vibrant movement, emotion, or full performance of the play. In short, the play is robbed of many (if not most) of its qualities.

Yes, some might argue that listening to the music alone is enough of an experience...but in that case, you're better off purchasing the brilliant 3-disc Complete Symphonic Recording and keeping it on the level of a listening experience. This DVD gives you none of the audio fidelity of the CDs, and none of the excitement of the theater musical: it's the worst of both worlds, so to speak.

Save your money, or at least know what you're getting before you buy. Let's hope that - now that Les Miserables has ended its Broadway run - the full performance might be coming out on DVD one of these days.

I'm sure it must have been a wonderful concert to attend in person, but on DVD it's frustrating and only gives you a part of what you get in the theater. It's a waste of what could have been done on the DVD format. This, in its glaring incompleteness, will not do at all.

Cheers,
J.

51 The best DVD I have
Having watched the show already, this musical in concert really fills my need for just the music. The performers concentrated on their singing. Big choir in background added depth and volume. The singing of the theme song with an all-star international tenors sung in their native language is unbeliverably superb!

52 A TOTAL BREATHTAKING PERFORMANCE!!!
I absolutely think Lea Salonga deserved the crowd's applause. The creators of the show really saw something special about this woman and it did change the perception of those who saw and heard her perform. She landed the role after much controversies. She defines perfectly-pitched voice and endearingly wowed the audience with her appropriate mild yet strong and powerful version as the "bitter" Eponine. The much-loved "On My Own" and "A Little Fall of Rain" were just perfect. In my whole life as a critic, i cannot simply think of a person to better Salonga's performance or even to equal it. Her's was simply glorious! I am excited to see her version on the big screen. Probably not as Eponine, but as Kim in Miss Saigon: The Movie.

53 The true dream cast
I have listened to just about every version of Les Mis, and I really believe this actually is my entire dream cast. Colm Wilkinson is Valjean- there are other good actors in the role, but still. No one else deserves to take his place on this version. He is simply the best. Ditto Phillip Quast. No one else could do the part justice. Javert became my favorite character, and "Stars" is now my favorite song. His voice is breath-taking. Micheal ball is great as Marius... my friend prefers David Bryant better, but I think Micheal has a gorgeous voice. Ruthie Henshall is the perfect Fantine, better than Randy Graff or Debbie Byrne. She doesn't make Fantine seem too pathetic. Judy Kuhn is also perfect as Cosette. I really don't like the character, but I like how Kuhn seems to give Cosette a shred of personality. The Thernardiers were hysterical. I didn't think anything of "Master of the House" before I saw this, but I was in tears at the end of the song. Lea Solonga is the best Eponnine ever. Period. Now for the absolutly BEST BEST MOST WONDERFUL person in the show. I am absolutly in LOVe with Micheal MaGuire, and his performance as Enjorlas. Wow. His entrance on "Do You Hear the People Sing?" took my breath away. Literally. My school is putting on Les Mis, and I have spent many, many hours sulking over our Enjorlas, and how he doesn't sound enough like Micheal. No one will ever again live up to my standards playing Enjorlas... But he is on this, so it must have five stars. Buy this... you won't be able to find a better show.

54 Worth every penny!
Wow! I am a 13-year-old Les Mis Loony, and I was in tears of joy and amazement by the end of this amazing, wonderful, powerful . . . I could go on.
~Philip Quast - I am in love with his acting, singing, character, everthing. This man is amazing, incredible. He's such a nice guy during the bows, but look at his eyes during Confrontation. Totally evil! Made me fall in love with Javert.
~Colm Wilkinson - the best Valjean ever, period.
~Ruthie Henshall - a beautiful voice, perfect Fantine, love the way she trails away during death "waaaaaaaaaake . . ."
~Micheal Ball - nearly in tears during Empty Chairs, incredible! beautiful expression during EVERY song!
~Lea Salonga - I LIKE her bitterness during On My Own. So many people dump on her, but think about the words: "Without a home, without a friend, without a face to say hello to" Sing that sweetly? Are you kidding?
~Judy Kuhn - I like her voice, I really respect her, yes, it takes a while to get used to her . . . face . . . but her singing is REALLY worth it
~Micheal Maguire - Yes, he botched two notes, but he's a GUY, and guys aren't meant to sing that high. He's the best Enjolras, folks. Give him a break.
~Alun Armstrong - just go away! I cannot stand this man! Anyone, anyone, would have been better! He's never fierce enough! He's just annoying.
~Jenny Galloway - very good! I want to be Mme. when I grow up. I really prefer her to Gay Soper's squalling and Jennifer Butt's lack of Cockney.
~Hannah Chick - amazing that a little kid could take that lighting explosion so well. Precious!
~Adam Searles - love his expression on "Nothing that you'd call up to scratch" adorable, perfect Gavroche!

What else can I say? You will not regret buying this on DVD!

55 Chills
I recently purchased this Dvd to study the role of Valjean as i hope to soon be playing it! I was extremely impressed by the whole production. It is essentially a delicate blend of a gala concert where the performers stand and sing and an actual stage performance. This has to be my favorite brodway musical scorewise. Les Miserables, to me, is America's only grand opera. I perfer it to be sung in a classical style. The voicing is as classical as you get with broadway, (I would love to see a opera company put it on!)
Colm Wilkinson is a incredibly convincing valjean. His eyes tell the story of what he is singing. Unfortunatly his voice is very worn out sounding at times. If only he would whisper a tad bit less. I am judging him by classical standards though. He is amazing save a few urksome vocal passages.
Phillip Quast is a knockout Javert! If his voice is not as rich as you might expect for a baritone, he makes up for it en-mass with pathos and characterization. His voice relly is perfectly pointy and odious for a perfect Javert.
Overall I have been excited and empowered by this musical which is all new to me! The story is one that is well known and moving in every way and the score is so motivic in nature that you would think you were listening to Wagner's characteristic character themes. Each character has a musical tag theme that will come up at various times ading to the mistique of the piece, its really quite an exciting score. As someone who perfers watching and singing Opera to Brodway this is the ultimate crossover!

56 The show and music are wonderful, but...
The show and music are wonderful, but this doesn't capture the show. If I am just going to listen to the music, I prefer the "Complete Symphonic" CD. If I want to watch the play (and I have seen it about 8 times in various places) I want to watch the play and this does not deliver.

Now don't get me wrong, this is good for what it is, but it is not the play. It also cuts out some of the most relevant scenes in the play in my. It is merely some of the best (or at least most famous) performers signing their parts. If you want to have another version of the play this is fine, but if you want to get a flavor of the show, but the CD (above) and wait until they release a real version on DVD (if ever).

57 Exceptional Performance, but with one flaw
This performance of Les Miserables is simply fantastic. The words are heartbreaking. I probably would have rated this 4.8 stars, but the pull-down wouldn't let me.

Javert is portrayed by Philip Quast, and just to see him act as Javert is worth the price of the movie.

Lea Salonga performs Eponine with a beautiful performance of "on my own" and "a little fall of rain".

Michael Ball is the perfect Marius, and his "Empty chairs" brings tears to my eyes.

Ruthie Henshall plays as Fantine, who has many moods, portrayed splendidly.

Adam Searles is Gavroche, the sly street urchin. I wonder why the "little people" song was cut so short... he was underused in the musical, but oh well...

Colm Wilkinson was perfect in every way as the convict from the chain gang, Valjean, who turns to good as the mayor, "Monsieur Madeleine". Javert, though, finds out and sends Valjean out of the city.

The thenardiers are hilarious, especially in "master of the house." they are great comic relief for this dark movie.

The only one i have critisizm for is Judy Kuhn playing Cossette. Her voice is not necessarily that pretty when she sings in this version. I've heard her sing in lower keys before,and she was much better-sounding in those movies, take Disney's Pocahontas, for example.

This movie is rated PG-13 for language, a TINY bit of crude humor, and strong sexual content. I would recommend this for ages 10 and up.

I hope you find this review useful!

58 What shouldn't happen to a Broadway show
I give this DVD a 3 stars rating 2 stars for the casting and 1 for the performance.Reasons why:1) A Broadway Musical it's not to show it as a concert 'cause it loses the impact of the scenes you see in the real play.2) When you see this concert then you don't wanna see the play 'cause you already know the music with the original casting and orchestra, when they change castings some of the times what they do is mess the musical play.My comment to this DVD is:The casting rules great voices but the performance ..., it's better to buy the CD. It's good to hear not to see the concert, in other words DON'T BUY IT IF YOU DON'T WANT TO LOSE YOUR MONEY!!!

59 Lea
OK, Let me just put it this way...Anyone who thinks that Lea Salonga's Eponine, was too "angry", sorry folks but you are sadly mistaken. From An acting perspective, Lea is flawless, her use of transitions and never-ending colors and emotion is uncomparable. Those of you who didn't like her voice, well you need to stop talking, again her performance vocally was flawless. Lea Salonga is quite possibly on of the greatest actresses Broadway has ever seen. Her performance in this film lacks nothing less than a Tony award. Buy this film and be honored to watch Lea.

60 Joy in Alaska
Last year I took several high school students from Alaska to New York. We saw the Broadway production of Les Miserables and we all thoroughly enjoyed the story and the music. I received the DVD for Christmas this year and have been watching parts of it everyday since. It is by far the best of any video or DVD I own. My 12 year old son, who pictures himself a rock star/rapper sits enthralled when I watch and he sings the songs on his own. The individual performances are outstanding. The orchestra part after the death scene at the barricade is very moving. The collective performances at the end of both acts bring a lump to the throat of this 50 year old. It is rare in life to be able to witness excellence. This performance is that. If I could only own one performance it would be this.

61 Lovely
You know, I first saw this video on PBS when I was about eight. I've seen it many times since then, though I still have yet to see live. (I will! Just you wait!). Anyway, after listening to the CD, and then watching this again, I remember what I felt when I first saw it.
Maybe it is because I saw it when I was so young, but to me, this is THE cast, and when I think of characters from Les Mis, I think of this cast.
Valjean- I don't know, I've only ever heard Colm do it, but I think he's fabulous. I would've loved to see him live. This actually goes for most of the cast.
Fantine- Ruthie H. is great. She has a gorgeous voice, and she looks the part. I have a really old copy of Les Mis, the book, and the illustrations of Fantine look exactly like this Fantine.
Cosette- Judy Kuhn seems to me to be the Cosette. She's got that first soprano operatic voice that fits very well. And if she's not very pretty, just remember that she comes from stage (not movies), and she doesn't have to be. She just has to be good.
Marius- Michael Ball is an excellent singer, and he brings a lot of feeling to Marius. He reminds me of a teddy bear or something. He does a magnificant job, even if he sweats more than anyone else in the cast.
Enjolras- Maguire will always be Enjolras to me. What can I say? He's got a strong powerful voice, perfect for a rebel leader.
Javert- Phillip Quast is wonderful. He brings out all of the qualities of Javert with his voice and expression. Again, he is Javert.
Young Cosette, and Gavroche- both of them are great. Young Cosette has a pretty voice, and sings Castle on A Cloud with conviction. Then again, I'm used to my friend attempting to sing that song as creepily as she can... anyway. Gavroche is cute, and a great singer. A little strange listening to him as opposed to OBC, but I like this guy better.
Eponine- Lea Salonga, what can I say? It was her performance that made me want to play the part of Eponine. I loved A Little Fall of Rain especially. This is just personal taste, but as good as Frances Rueffle is, I prefer Lea's stronger voice to Frances's higher-pitched. Maybe it's because of the way I sing...
Thenardiers - I love these guys. When I was eight, I had decided that If I couldn't be Eponine, I wanted to be Mme. Thenardier. Of course, at that time, I really didn't understand some of what she was saying... But they just look like they're having so much fun, so I don't really want to comment on performance, except that I love the Cockney.

62 Wonderful!!!
I can't say enough about this production. I've never seen a live presentation of the show but this is the next best thing. It is so different from any musical I've seen before. All the performances are first rate or better. The story is true to Hugo's book. I borrowed the video from the library but can't wait to own the DVD so that I can watch it again and again. It is a truly emotional experience - keep a box of tissues on hand. If you haven't seen this production yet, do so soon, you'll never regret it.

63 Les Miserables - The Dream Cast in Concert
One of my favs a must for any broadway fan Michael Maguire Michael Ball and all the cast does a great job

64 Awesome!
The only thing that would make this Les Miz experience better is if it could be made into a major motion picture, much like Evita was. In the meantime, with the awesome cast and the great music it is a definite treat. I really enjoyed the Jean ValJean International tribute, It was a good way to provide an ending to the anniversary concert.

65 And I wasn't even a fan of musicals...
A classic. The "dream cast" is flawless, the sound quality is magnificent. The story is timeless and the musical adaptation beyond criticism. A powerful production that defines the musical genre. The work speaks for itself.

66 Phillip Quast IS Javert!
If for no other reason, buy this VHS/DVD and watch the facial expressions/voice inflections of Phillip Quast as Javert progresses through the performance. He starts out as rigid and relentless, and slowly transforms into one unsure of his previously unquestioned beliefs. Quast's acting during Javert's death scene( and the scene where allows Valjean to escape ("take him Valjean, before I change my mind...) is worthy of an academy award!

67 Exceptional Performance, but with one flaw
This performance of Les Miserables is simply fantastic. The words are heartbreaking.

Javert is portrayed by Philip Quast, and just to see him act as Javert is worth the price of the movie.

Lea Salonga performs Eponine with a beautiful performance of "on my own" and "a little fall of rain".

Michael Ball is the perfect Marius, and his "Empty chairs" brings tears to my eyes.

Ruthie Henshall plays as Fantine, who has many moods, portrayed splendidly.

Adam Searles is Gavroche, the sly street urchin. I wonder why the "little people" song was cut so short... he was underused in the musical, but oh well...

Colm Wilkinson was perfect in every way as the convict from the chain gang, Valjean, who turns to good as the mayor, "Monsieur Madeleine". Javert, though, finds out and sends Valjean out of the city.

The thenardiers are hilarious, especially in "master of the house." they are great comic relief for this dark movie.

The only one i have critisizm for is Judy Kuhn playing Cossette. Her voice is not necessarily pretty, and even madame thenardier is prettier than her! :))

I hope you find this review useful!

68 Great, considering it was the concert version.
I saw the actual staged version of Les Miserables about a week before I saw this. I am so glad I did. If you have seen Les Miz, and love it (as I do), this DVD is worth it. But it is a CONCERT VERSION, not the actual staged version. Instead of acting, there is subtitles telling you what should be happening. Of course, great music. All of the singers were great, though I liked the Eponine I saw the first time the best. And the singers all did as much acting as they could standing at a microphone with no props or scenery (but they were in costume). The one scene that I thought was very close to the staged version was "A Little Fall Of Rain", Eponine's final scene. Very touching.
If you buy this, buy it for the music and extras. You won't see much acting. The cd is just as good. But except for an actual taped version of the play, this is the best you can get without leaving home.

69 First, see htis, then go and see it on stage.
This is one of the best movies, or even live performances on video, that I have seen. If you like this, at all, then go to New York, and see it on stage. I'm planning on going, if I can. Please, enjoy this, and cherish it.

70 Les Miserales..in CONCERT!
Ah, Les Mis, a fantasic stage musical.I do not even need to mention how positively devine the music is. We all know that. I'm here to comment on the over all quality of the concert itself.

First of all, I really disliked Colm Wilkinson's Jean Valjean. He barely put any expression or acting into it, plus he looked the same throughout the whole video. He just did nothing for me. Philip Quast, on the other hand, was BRILLANT! An Oscar worthy preformance, if you ask me. Not only is he the absolute Javert, he is an incredible actor. I don't remember the rest of the cast by name, so I'll just address the charcters. The Thenardiers were very good...hilarious, at that! The actor who played Enjolras stole the show...he was beyond exceptional! Everyone else was quite good at their roles, too. Colm was the only disappointment.

This video is lacking a few things however. First, they cut a few songs and scenes from the actual musical. Secondly, it's NOT a taped version of the actual show, so the wonderful sets and character interactions are not here. That's about all that's missing. Watch it for Philip Quast and be blown away. Highly recommended to the Javert fans.

71 Stellar performances make this spectacular video a must-have
The powerful cast of Les Miserables' 10th Annivesary Concert delivers every bit of promise that its ambitious "The Dream Cast" subtitle makes. Colm Wilkinson reprises his most famous role and gives a distilled performance. His Valjean is now more thoughtful, more cerebral and internal than during his London and Broadway days. Philip Quast is simply astounding as Javert. The highly-inflected style of Ruthie Henshall in her portrayal of Fantine might not be to every one's taste; however, this variation from the generally well-enunciating cast offers a subtle -- and beautiful -- texture to the entire show.

Lea Salonga shines as the street-wise Eponine. Her voice rings with clear timbre, and her interpretation is certainly novel: gone is the overtly love-sick Rufellesque Eponine, what one gets here is the voice of an angry teen who bites back at the pangs of unrequited love. The rest of the supporting cast, the hundreds strong choir that backs up the actors, and the lively audience make for a very memorable experience indeed. --.

72 Stellar performances make this spectacular video a must-have
The powerful cast of Les Miserables' 10th Annivesary Concert delivers every bit of promise that its ambitious "The Dream Cast" subtitle makes. Colm Wilkinson reprises his most famous role and gives a distilled performance. His Valjean is now more thoughtful, more cerebral and internal than during his London and Broadway days. Philip Quast is simply astounding as Javert. The highly-inflected style of Ruthie Henshall in her portrayal of Fantine might not be to every one's taste; however, this variation from the generally well-enunciating cast offers a subtle -- and beautiful -- texture to the entire show.

73 Stellar performances make this spectacular video a must-have
The powerful cast of Les Miserables' 10th Annivesary Concert delivers every bit of promise that its ambitious "The Dream Cast" subtitle makes. Colm Wilkinson reprises his most famous role and gives a distilled performance. His Valjean is now more thoughtful, more cerebral and internal than during his London and Broadway days. Philip Quast is simply astounding as Javert. The highly-inflected style of Ruthie Henshall in her portrayal of Fantine might not be to every one's taste; however, this variation from the generally well-enunciating cast offers a subtle -- and beautiful -- texture to the entire show.

74 Eponine.
I just read a review that said that Eponine is meant to be a BITTER character. that is a complete lie. anyone who has read the book or knows anything about the story will know that Eponine was essentially a DESPERATE character. she was not pathetic like Kaho SHimada's eponine. and she was not an angry, bitter cow like Lea Salonga's. She was DESPERATE and DETERMINED like Frances Ruffelle's Eponine. Lea Salonga was THE worst eponine. she sounds angry in "on my own". she has her perfect, pretty little voice and over pronounces every single word. she has to pronounce ALL her Ts absolutely spot on. and its wrong wrong wrong! they say it is the DREAM cast in concert, so why do they have to have the worst person playing the best character? if you want to hear a REAL eponine, listen to the OLC or the OBC or, even better, read the complete, unabridged book. ignore Salonga. she has no idea

75 It's Worth It!
Les Miserables - The Dream Cast in Concert is the best musical on DVD. I'm a 16 years old girl and I love this DVD. When they say dream cast they mean DREAM CAST! Colm Wilkinson (Valjean) is just as great as he always is. Philip Quast brings Javert to life like no one eles will ever do. Lea Salonga is the best Eponine ever. Michael Ball is the sweetest Marius. Ruthie Henshall, Jenny Galloway, Alun Armstrong, Michael Maguire, Judy Kuhn, Anthony Crivello, Adam Searles and Hannah Chick are just as great. This DVD is worth buying. You will never have a cast like this performing some of the most bueatifull song in the world the way this cast dose.

76 Let's get this straight
This isn't a performance on stage as you would see it in a theatre. It is exactly what the title says. It is the dream cast in CONCERT. This is sung and treated as a concert, the only theatrical thing about it being that the singers are in costume.

I would say this is the dream cast, because except for Marius, everybody looked perfect for the parts and sang superbly. Whoever played Enjolras was pretty groovy. Dig that red vest with the gold braid, man... The general feeling with the ABC members (the singers who played them) was great. You can see them all making faces at each other and laughing behind their eyes.

I'd recommend this for anyone who likes Les Mis...

Oh, and at the end, after all the thank-you and acknowledgement speeches, a bunch of guys who played Valjean in various countries all came up to the stage and sang Do You Hear the People Sing. They would take turns singing lines - in their native language. That is so funny, especially seeing so many different appearances all supposed to be the same person... I still think the Wilkonson dude is the best one for the part. Anyway, check this out. I think you'll get a bang out of it especially if you are into the story.

77 Superb
After having seen countless versions of Les Miserables on television and three times on stage, I can confidently say this is the best recording I have ever heard. I also own the Symphonic Recording and the Broadway Cast Recording, both of which are nothing to this amazing version. Although the musical is only sung and not acted out, I know my Les Mis and this is well worth it for the fan, no matter how old they may be.

78 Most ridiculous production, ever
This production is like this:
You are watching an opera. But not really an opera.
A big orchestra and huge chorus are behind the singers.
The singers are standing in a row in front.
There is a row of microphone sets in front.
The singers are singing recitatives and arias.
I mean, what kind of stupid thing is this ?
And this is what exactly happens in this DVD production.
I felt that I was completely ridiculed and cheated.

79 LOVED IT
ITS GREAT
ONE DAY MORE BEST SHOW TUNE OFALL TIME

80 Splendid Music
The music in Les Miserables is some of the best i've seen. It is about a man (Jean val jaen) he becomes a convict when he runs away on probation. He then becomes mayor of Montreal su mere.
and saves Cosette from the Theinders and runs to paris.

81 BEST OF BEST BESTEST BEST MUSICAL
I know I freaked out, but this is really a great musical. I'm sure that if u purchase this DVD/ VCD/ VHS/ CD/ whatever, u'll be very proud to be able to buy it.

The who cast has been carefully chosen, thro my observation, for each of them have their unique points. You see it, and don't buy it? You'll regret that. Mh family's fav muscial is this: Les Miserables. Second goes to Phantom.

82 Do you hear the people sing?
I have never seen Les Mis on stage, but always wanted to. This performance hands down makes up for it. I have this disc and the audio CD of it so I can enjoy it anywhere I go. Colm Wilkinson is enjoyable. I can just imagine how good he was when he originated the role of Valjean on London's West End in 1985. The DVD is lacking one thing the VHS copy is though. At the end of the performance before the International Valjeans encore, Cameron Macintosh and Trevor Nunn and others say a few words to audience. Either way, I'd rather watch my DVD copy anyday or listen to the audio CD. If you don't get to see it on stage, then this DVD is a must buy.

83 A Great CONCERT video, with a good cast for the most part.
First let me make it know this is NOT a video of a dramatic production, but more a vidoe of a Gala concert, Held at londons Royal albert Hall.

The cast is called the "the dream cast" wich i agree with..... with one exception, that is LEA SALAGONA she is so bland, boring, I FELL asleep during her "on my own" it was horrible they should have used Francis Ruffelle she will ALWAYS BE THE EPONIENE.

other than that this is a good thing to kepp us occupied until A DRAMATIC VEDIO OF THE MUSICAL COMES OUT!

84 Les Miserables
I think that they should also put this on CD. This is the best cast make up.

85 Salonga's On My Own alone worth the price of this CD
Far too infrequently do history, music, lyric, singer and event all converge for one, seemingly frozen moment in time that leaves the listener so amazed.

A majestic 1890s tale provides a backdrop that frames many life realities...class, hope, love, war, and death. This Les Miserables sub plot of a teenage girl from the slums of Paris smitten by a university student who hardly knows she exists.

A lush, yet dynamic ballad stretches the artist's capabilities. Few have the range and talent to deliver this song with the emotion its powerful lyrics require.

Enter Lea Salonga whose portrayal of Eponine is defined by her soaring performance of On My Own. Every syllable, every word is enunciated and completed flawlessly.

On its 10th anniversary, an all-star cast assembled at The Royal Albert Hall in London for a "Best of Les Miz" concert.

With so many forces so perfectly aligned, how fortunate this classic moment was captured forever.

86 Bravo
This is a costumed recital marking the 10th anniversary of Les Miserables; it is not the staged play. Those who love the songs will want to sing along with the cast. The words are heart-breaking; the actors are flawless! They are backed by a 250-member chorus.

The plot revolves around a decent man (Valjean), wrongly imprisoned for many years, who breaks his parole. He is hunted for years by an obsessed policeman, Javert, at the time of the French Revolution. Subplots all involve self-sacrifice for the sake of love: love of a child, unrequited love, love at first sight, and love of country. There is something for everyone here. The talented Colm Wilkerson sings the role of Jajean and is magnificent. He is matched by the wonderful Phillip Quast as the relentless Inspector Javert. The large supporting cast is outstanding!

Although the actors stand still, they are acting in character, and we can see them up close. A special treat: 17 actors who have played Valjean in other countries join the cast for the encore of the showstopping songs "One More Day" and "Can you Hear the Pople Sing?" Bravo!

87 Amazing production...the ultimate cast
I was swept away by the array of talents who graced this production. I'm bursting with pride to say that Lea salonga's performance is out-of-this world. Her voice conveyed the emotions of unrequited love, especially in "On my Own". That angelic voice really deserves to be heard again in a new musical.
The rest of the cast was spectacular, especially Michael Ball and Colm Wilkinson. I especially loved the finale of the Valjeans from all over the world. It gave me the chills. LOVED IT, LOVED IT, LOVED IT !!!

88 All Star, Allmost
Ladies and gentlemen, this is without any doubt the greatest Les Miserables recording ever, we all heard the big number of recordings, we have seen it in the taetre, and even though Les Miserables has been the musical with the most popular singers of all time, Colm Wilkinson, Lea Salonga, Joanna Ampil Gary Morris, Philip Quast,and so on, this recording was abble to make a mistake. Even though Michael Miguere is a great actor, i would like to have seen Anthony Warlow in the role of eljoras. How ever, Anthony warlow appears on the dream cast recording with Gary Morris. So we are to be settled with to Dream Cast Recordings, two of witch i like the other on (full symphonic recording) the most. Are you wondering if you should buy this concert? Do so, in fact , buy both of them, buy all of them, you can never get enough of this brilliant musical. Only small canges are made from each recording, some lyrics, some actors. Colm Wilkinson, Michael Ball And Philip Quast is on three of theese recordings along with different other actors, they are all wort every doller. Enjoy

89 Prefer this version to the stage, for intimacy....
Having first seen the stage production, had feelings of overwhelming movement, and not really getting to know the characters as there were too many of them....plus the distraction of watching the stage revolve, (which made me car-sick)....

The 10th anniversary was such a gift...for it got rid of all the staging, and what was left was the heart of the piece...the characters and the songs.

For intimacy, having each character sing right to you....it is delightful.

Philip Quast is Javert, selling each song he is given with such power...what can one say. Buy this DVD...and enjoy!!!

90 Know what you get!
This is a wonderful video of a stage performance. Don't expect a "movie" with acting and sets and Hollywood glitz but you will find wonderful rich characters that you can "feel" and know. I don't believe you will find a better video that captures the music that is 'Les Miz'. I cannot travel to see a live stage show and am thrilled to have this video.

91 More than a 'brief shining moment'
If the love of musicals is an acquired taste, then Les Miserables is as the French say, my `piece de resistance'. I have seen this for the nth times and I have yet to see a flaw - it is perfect. Lea's performance was so moving that in her (Eponine's) dying scene, you could see the boy Gavroche visibly close to tears. Colm Wilkinson was good, but I would have preferred Gary Morris; his Bring Him Home in the symphonic recording is simply the best. The young Cossette hardly missed a beat singing Castles in the Clouds even when startled by the slammed door. Everybody has perfect voices that even the actor who sang only three lines (" You, in the barricades, listen to this...") was marvelous. This `dream cast' will set the standards for musicals for lifetimes to come.

92 Trees are bare & everywhere the streets are fullof strangers
The concert style of this performance, with the bare scenery and massive chorus, only adds richness which would be taken away by overdramatized acting. We are finally able to sit down and absorb the fullness of the words without being distracted.

"On My Own" is one of the most haunting and simple melodies ever composed, and it never fails to astound me how, against the heavy drum-driven melodies of this opera's atmospheric score, such a downplayed and beautiful song could be interlaced so seamlessly in the fabric of this epic production. In all honesty, "On My Own" and its various compositions is the only allure that draws me again and again to "Les Miz." From Fantine's dying song to Eponine's unforgettable meditation, "On My Own" makes the hard reality of "Les Miz"'s historic uprisings only the backdrop to which the intimate lives of literature's most heroic characters soulfully sing.

93 a review from someone who's seen others
The video is dumb. The characters don't act, they stand in front of a microphone and sing. Don't buy this video or you will be dissapointed. Trust me. It is much better if you buy a different one.

94 It's not a "musical."
These people on the same stage at the same time make for an almost overwhelming experience.
I have seen the show in person, and listened to all the recorded versions. First and absolutely foremost, it is NOT a musical. In every way such things can be measured, Les Miserables is an opera! There is no spoken dialogue. Every major character has his or her own musical oevre in the score, there is a clown (2, actually), and the finale is enough to break your heart.
You have seen the reviews of all the characters, and there's little more that I can add, except that Philip Quast as the most interesting character in the novel, as in the opera--Javert--is hard to believe. As I watched the tape and listened to his voice I kept saying, "The range, the quality, the control of this voice is beyond anything I have ever seen, heard, or imagined, except years ago, sometimes, by Paverotti!" The tape is worth the price for his two solos alone.
Overall, wait until evening, get some soft wine, and join your sweetie for a compelling, sybaritic experience.

95 awesome cast!
I think Les Miz in concert was remakable! The cast were awesome! Each character were portrayed nicely and each cast member had great interpretations. Colm Wilkinson was so awesome and he seems to be VALJEAN himself! Ruthie Henshall's Fantine was also remarkable... so full of emotions. Michael Ball was marvelous as Marius and for me, he is the ideal Marius. He has such an awesome voice that gives me the chills.
Although not everybody liked Lea Salonga's interepretation of Eponine, I still think she was wonderful. I think it's good that she was able to interpret the character differently. I also enjoy Frances Rufelle's portrayal of Eponine, but Lea's performance cannot be ignored. Hannah Chick as little Cossette was so sweet and I admire her for not getting distracted by a sudden noise in the middle of the song and mood. It shows how good of an actress she is at a very young age! I could go on, but as a wrap up, the cast was definitely awesome and this is a must-see and must-have collection!