A story that touches on redemption, revolution, the French penal system, poverty, iniquity and the poignancy of relationships, Les Miserables has breadth, drama and spectacle. And there was drama and spectacle aplenty in this full throttle new production.

Staged with great verve and energy and a fabulous use of lighting, although perhaps a little too much dry ice, director David Humphries has created a show that felt fresh and new.

The sizeable orchestra under the leadership of Martin Bennetts did the score full justice, creating a full and truly operatic sound. This was a finely sung production: vocal performances of the cast were excellent, exhibiting nuance and shading and good vocal technique in the way they interpreted their roles.

All the leads made an impression, although mention for Giles Odling as a sinister Javere, Harry Dunnett, who really grew into the role of Jean Valjean, Ella Williams heartbreaking as Eponine and Josh Henderson charismatic as Marius.

Karen Robson