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Book Tickets
THE
STORY

Les Miserables – West End

  • Theatre

    Sondheim Theatre

  • Duration

    150 minutes

  • Age Restrictions

    6+ years

Victor Hugo’s vast novel – a sweeping set of stories amid the French Revolution – was always an unlikely candidate for a stage musical. That Les Mis, as the show has come to be known, has become the longest-running production in musical theatre history beggars belief.

It was initially sniffed at by the critics, dismissed as melodrama and mere spectacle, but as the rolling ticker running around the Queen’s Theatre boasts, it has since been seen by more than 70 million people worldwide.

With lyrics by Alain Boublil and a sung-through score by Claude-Michel Schönberg, Les Misérables was developed by the Royal Shakespeare Company in the mid-eighties and quickly became the show that made its producer Cameron Mackintosh’s name – and his millions.

Read More

Set in 19th Century France, Hugo’s story centres on Jean Valjean – a down-and-out peasant imprisoned after stealing a loaf of bread for his starving nephew. Les Miserables is his quest for redemption after breaking jail and robbing a kindly bishop of his silver. Pursued by his prison guard, a stern police officer named Javert, the law catches up with Valjean – only for his victim to cover for him, claiming the silver was a gift and handing over two further candlesticks. Valjean swears he will become an honest man. Years later, the two men, the prisoner and policeman, will come face to face again.

Les Mis homes in on the revolution itself, and as it takes to the barricades, the musical follows a series of characters through tumultuous times. For some, like the grotesque Madame and Monsier Thernadier, they’re an opportunity for profiteering; for others, like the revolutionary Enroljas and his student Marius, a shot at political upheaval. Valjean, now wealthy and moral, joined in their crusade – as does Javert – and thought they should be fighting shoulder to shoulder, the two rivals find themselves head-to-head once more.

The musical is almost as epic as Hugo’s original novel, but Boublil and Schönberg’s score is astonishing. While its rousing revolutionary drum beats, ‘Do You Hear The People Sing’ and ‘One Day More,’ have become iconic, so have softer numbers like ‘I Dreamed a Dream,’ ‘Stars’ and ‘Empty Chairs and Empty Tables’ that carry its love stories and its heartfelt grief. Far from being an overblown melodrama – a grand historical yarn of revolutionaries and corsets – Les Miserables is tender, honest and, above all else, human. Book your Les Miserables Tickets today!

INFO

Info

Les Miserables Tickets

Choose your seats via our live booking platform. Once payment is completed, you will receive an email confirmation with your booking reference number and eTickets.

Upon arrival at the venue, display the eTickets on your phone or show the box office a printed ticket.

Secure Theatre Tickets

Which Theatre

Les Miserables is showing at the Sondheim Theatre at 51 Shaftesbury Avenue, Soho, London W1D 6BA.

Any Questions

If you have questions about your ticket purchase, contact our customer services team on 020 3670 8887

Good to Know

Strobe lighting is used several times during the performance.

Age Recommendation

For ages six and above.

Can I Video or Take Photos?

The use of camera and sound recording equipment is strictly prohibited.

Les Miserables – Reviews

5 star ratingOutstandingly superb We finally got to see Les Miserables after some time without being able to go to the theatre, and what a show it was! The experience was very special and... read moreWe finally got to see Les Miserables after some time without being able to go to the theatre, and what a show it was! The experience was very special and the performance by the cast and the orchestra was utterly magnificent, beyond our highest expectations. This is probably one of the shows we’ll definitely watch again. Very emotional! Highly recommended! read less
5/14/2023
5 star ratingSpeechless. This show has been on my bucket list forever & my daughter & I finally got to see it last night (10th May). I can barely even describe how stupendous... read moreThis show has been on my bucket list forever & my daughter & I finally got to see it last night (10th May). I can barely even describe how stupendous it was, it took my breath away. I was completely mesmerised from start to end. I laughed & I cried & got so caught up in it I felt like I was actually in France. The cast. WOW! Four stand out performances for me. The actor playing Jean Valjean was made for the role. Strong voice & fantastic stage presence. Javert - the most powerful & emotive voice, he had me crying with his performance. Pure Perfection. The Thenardiers. I’m lost for words. They were hilarious, comically timed to perfection & laugh out loud performances. Loved them!The orchestra was phenomenal & the entire cast was flawless. Hands down the best show I’ve ever seen. The best money you’ll ever spend! read less
5/11/2023
5 star ratingOutstanding show! I have seen this show a lot of times over the years, also the concerts. I went to see Les Miserables last night May 2nd. It was the best show... read moreI have seen this show a lot of times over the years, also the concerts. I went to see Les Miserables last night May 2nd. It was the best show I have ever seen absolutely fabulous special effects lighting. In such a wonderful theater. I booked a last minute value ticket with some limited view. I so wish I had got ticket with best view as it was that good! Anybody reading this will not waste their money watching this amazing show. The audience was thrilled and the standing ovation was definitely deserved . THANK YOU TO ALL ! read less
5/03/2023
5 star ratingGoose bumps. This was absolutely fantastic. I went solo and it’s the third or fourth time I’ve seen it (not in London though). I got cheap tickets throughTKS is Leicester Square. My... read moreThis was absolutely fantastic. I went solo and it’s the third or fourth time I’ve seen it (not in London though). I got cheap tickets throughTKS is Leicester Square. My seats were still good, albeit far back. Didn’t matter. I could see everything and the music and singing were incredible. Goose bumps. read less
4/27/2023
5 star ratingLove love love This was the most amazing show I have ever seen. I don't think I'll be able to go back to Australian theatre again. The music, singing everything! Highly recommended
4/11/2023
5 star ratingThe best production I’ve ever seen. The most powerful, emotional, captivating production I’ve ever seen. The emotion with which the actors portray their roles was so intense and the singing talent was absolutely phenomenal. The stage... read moreThe most powerful, emotional, captivating production I’ve ever seen. The emotion with which the actors portray their roles was so intense and the singing talent was absolutely phenomenal. The stage setting was breathtaking. Loved every moment. I can see why people go again and again. I actually left exhausted with all my emotions. I went with my 3 daughters and they equally enjoyed the production as much as I did. read less
4/07/2023
5 star ratingVäl värd att se!!! Fantastiskt föreställning!!! Väl värd att se! Inga problem att boka plats på parkett med skymd sikt, man ser bra ändå. Det enda vi reagerade på var att det blev lite... read moreFantastiskt föreställning!!! Väl värd att se! Inga problem att boka plats på parkett med skymd sikt, man ser bra ändå. Det enda vi reagerade på var att det blev lite förvirrande att Closette var mörk som liten och ljus som vuxen. read less
3/31/2023
5 star ratingBrilliant as always Have seen Les Mis many times in London, Birmingham and Manchester but just keep coming back for more. Took some friends - some of whom had never seen... read moreHave seen Les Mis many times in London, Birmingham and Manchester but just keep coming back for more. Took some friends - some of whom had never seen the show and of course they were blown away by it. This was not the best one I have ever seen, but Valjean grew, Javert was exceptional and Eponine was probably the best I have seen. Staging was excellent - although I still am not keen on the "rowing" opening - prefer the rock-breaking version - but a minor point. Thanks again Les Mis - I will be back - that is a certainty. read less
3/27/2023
5 star ratingWest End shows. My husband and I finally made it back to London. We were supposed to come 2020 for his conference. Of course that was cancelled. We arrived Monday 20th March... read moreMy husband and I finally made it back to London. We were supposed to come 2020 for his conference. Of course that was cancelled. We arrived Monday 20th March and went straight to Leicester Square. We saw Les Mis Tuesday night. Phenomenal amazing breathtaking. Both male leads, Jean Valjean and Javier the singing was just incredible. When Dean Chisnall sang Bring Him Home there was not a dry eye in the theatre. He is heaven blessed. I saw the show in Melbourne back in the 90s when it was first staged. This London production is magical. The stage and settings are so well crafted. I would love to see the show every night. read less
3/23/2023
5 star ratingAnother fabulous Les MIs evening Fabulous to the utmost - what else can I say? The singing was passionate and the stage spectacular. I have seen the Les Mis London production more than 20 times... read moreFabulous to the utmost - what else can I say? The singing was passionate and the stage spectacular. I have seen the Les Mis London production more than 20 times the past 15 years and I remain enthralled every time. This is a show with sad, comedic, depressing and uplifting moments, truly for the ages. read less
3/15/2023
5 star ratingUnbelievable I travelled to London from the Canary Islands for two days only to come and watch Les Miserables in Theatre as the movie was unbelievable and my absolute favourite. I... read moreI travelled to London from the Canary Islands for two days only to come and watch Les Miserables in Theatre as the movie was unbelievable and my absolute favourite. I was so excited to watch it and I am so happy I did. I would watch this 100 times again.

The actors and their voices, my god, gave me goosebumps and yes I cried.. a lot. Never seen any show like it. Every single thing was perfect and incredible. You have to go and see it.
read less
2/24/2023
5 star ratingUnbelievable I travelled to London from the Canary Islands for two days only to come and watch Les Miserables in Theatre as the movie was unbelievable and my absolute favourite. I... read moreI travelled to London from the Canary Islands for two days only to come and watch Les Miserables in Theatre as the movie was unbelievable and my absolute favourite. I was so excited to watch it and I am so happy I did. I would watch this 100 times again. The actors and their voices, my god, gave me goosebumps and yes I cried.. a lot. Never seen any show like it. Every single thing was perfect and incredible. You have to go and see it. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 read less
2/23/2023
5 star ratingSimply the best Still the best show in town. Goosebumps mandatory.

4th time seeing it (last time a decade ago). Took my grown up daughter for the first time because we had seen Hamilton...
read moreStill the best show in town. Goosebumps mandatory.

4th time seeing it (last time a decade ago). Took my grown up daughter for the first time because we had seen Hamilton before and I argued Les Mis was better. I was a bit nervous the show would be tired and I would lose the wager, but my fears were mislaid and at the end of the evening she unequivocally agreed!

Can't wait for the 5th visit!
read less
2/11/2023
5 star ratingTHE BEST Bravo!! An incredible show delivered with such emotional gusto it moved me to tears. A full house standing ovation (without hesitation) very well deserved. I would love to come again... read moreBravo!! An incredible show delivered with such emotional gusto it moved me to tears. A full house standing ovation (without hesitation) very well deserved. I would love to come again and bring my family along. A masterpiece in my opinion. Simply THE BEST! read less
2/02/2023
5 star ratingOutstanding, Perfect, MUST SEE! I attended to celebrate my 50th Birthday as I have always wanted to go. I have seen the film a few times and was not quite sure whether the live... read moreI attended to celebrate my 50th Birthday as I have always wanted to go. I have seen the film a few times and was not quite sure whether the live theatre production would match my expectations. But WOW! I had watery eyes within a few minutes as it was so powerful. We had fantastic seats D15/D16 so was close enough to see lots of the finer details. Fast forward to the last scene and tears were rolling. Words cannot express how truly AMAZING it was. A perfect day! I would not hesitate to return to see it for a second time. read less
1/28/2023
5 star ratingOutstanding, Perfect, MUST SEE! I attended to celebrate my 50th Birthday as I have always wanted to go. I have seen the film a few times and was not quite sure whether the live... read moreI attended to celebrate my 50th Birthday as I have always wanted to go. I have seen the film a few times and was not quite sure whether the live theatre production would match my expectations. But WOW! I had watery eyes within a few minutes as it was so powerful. We had fantastic seats D15/D16 so was close enough to see lots of the finer details. Fast forward to the last scene and tears were rolling. Words cannot express how truly AMAZING it was. A perfect day! I would not hesitate to return to see it for a second time. read less
1/28/2023
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CAST
CREATIVE

Cast and Creative

Cast

Jodie Nolan – Madame
Ava Brennan – Fantine
Cameron Burt – Feuilly
Christopher Jacobsen – Combeferre
Donald Craig Manuel – Bishop of Digne
Jon Robyns – Jean Valjean
David Thaxton – Javert
Gerard Carey – Thénardier
Robert Tripolino – Marius
Nathania Ong – Eponine
Josefina Gabrielle – Madame Thénardier
Jordan Shaw – Enjolras
Lulu-Mae Pears – Cosette
Emma Barr – Crone
Brad Barnley – Brujon
Hazel Baldwin – Swing
Mathew Dale – Swing

Creative

Cameron Mackintosh – Producer
Alain Boubil – Author/Dramatist
Claude-Michel Schonberg – Book & music
Herbert Kretzmer – Lyricist
Trevor Nunn – Adaption & direction
John Caird– adaption & direction
Christopher Key – Associate director
John Napier – Production designer
Andreane Neofitou – Costume designer

FAQ

FAQ

What songs are in Les Misérables?

“I Dreamed a Dream” – A powerful and emotional ballad sung by the character of Fantine. It is a song of hope and despair, reflecting on the shattered dreams and the harsh realities of life.

“On My Own” – Poignant and heart-wrenching solo sung by the character of Eponine, reminiscing her unrequited love for Marius and her longing to be with him while also acknowledging the harsh reality that they will never be together.

“Bring Him Home” – An emotional plea sung by the character of Valjean that mirrors his deep love for his adopted son, Marius, and his strong desire to keep him safe and bring him back home during the turmoil of the student revolution in Paris. It also reflects on the themes of fatherhood, sacrifice and redemption.

“Do You Hear the People Sing?” – A mighty, anthemic song that symbolizes hope and unity for the characters and people. It is an expression of their desire for freedom and a better life.

“One Day More” – An energetic and dynamic song that serves as the climax to the end of the first act and reflects the conflicting emotions and decisions the characters are facing.

“Empty Chairs at Empty Tables” – Marius sings a mournful song as he reflects on the friends he lost during the revolution.

“Master of the House” – A lively and entertaining contrast to the other more severe and emotional songs in the musical and portrays the dark side of human nature.

“Who Am I?” – The song expresses the inner turmoil of Valjean as he looks back on his years as a prisoner and his new life as a wealthy businessman and mayor.

What are 10 interesting facts about Les Mis?

1. Les Miserables is one of the longest-running musicals in London’s West End, having opened in 1985 and still showing at the Sondheim Theatre. It has been seen by over 70 million people worldwide and continues to bring joy to audiences today.

2. The original cast for Les Miserables included Colm Wilkinson as Jean Valjean, Patti LuPone as Fantine, Roger Allam as Javert, Michael Ball as Marius, Rebecca Caine as Cosette, and Alun Armstrong as Thénardier. This iconic cast was together for the first ten years after opening night.

3. The music for Les Miserables was composed by Claude-Michel Schonberg with lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer. It was adapted from the original French text of Alain Boublil and Jean-Marc Natel’s stage adaptation of Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel of the same name.

4. In 2012, a new production opened in London’s West End that featured 3D-like projections on a cinematic screen to create the Paris sewers scenes and other immersive moments during the show.

5. This new production also featured changes to some of the song arrangements and saw a complete recasting of its principal roles, including Ramin Karimloo taking over from Colm Wilkinson as Jean Valjean, Alfie Boe as Javert and Carrie Hope Fletcher replacing Rebecca Caine as Cosette.

6. To date, Les Miserables has won over 100 awards internationally, including an Olivier Award for Best Musical in 1985 and 8 Tony Awards on Broadway in 1987, including Best Musical.

7. The musical is regularly performed at special events such as Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Concert, where Alfie Boe reprised his role of Jean Valjean before 70 million TV viewers worldwide.

8. As well as being seen in cinemas worldwide with two film adaptations (including a recent blockbuster movie starring Hugh Jackman), it is also making its mark online through virtual performances and broadcasts like back in October 2020 when various members of the original 1985 cast reunited virtually to perform ‘Do You Hear The People Sing?’.

9. One exciting fact about Les Miserables is that its leading roles are often played by multiple actors within each performance – something which makes it unique compared to many other musicals – due to its physical demand on these actors who need time to rest between shows.

10. Another unique aspect of this beloved musical is that it has been produced in 45 different countries worldwide, translated into 21 languages, and even recently adapted into a concert version with a limited run at Royal Albert Hall in 2019 featuring many famous faces.

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