A DECADE since the last sell-out UK tour, Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed Broadway production of Boublil and Schönberg’s musical Les Misérables is back.

And incredibly this remastered production that has thrilled audiences worldwide is even better than ever - some 35 years after it first opened.

What strikes you from the outset is the dark and foreboding scenery inspired by the abstract paintings of Victor Hugo, and the ingenious use of light and shade that communicates so many emotions and themes of good and evil throughout.

I have never seen lighting used in such an expressive and dramatic way throughout a show- it was extraordinary.

This combined with the swift changes of giant, and symbolically, over-powering scenery - including the huge silhouette of the barricades , allows the show to move along at a pace with cinematic grandeur.

But of course at the very core of this show’s astounding success is the truly magnificent score. Every number is a gem, including the songs: I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own, Bring Him Home, One Day More, Master Of The House, Empty Chairs at Empty Tables, Stars, Red and Black and many more!

The press night audience whilst spellbound throughout whooped and cheered as the end of so many solo vocal performances by an all- round outstanding cast and were all on the feet cheering loudly at the end - many wiping away tears of emotion.

And this was despite the show being 15 minutes late starting and running for 3 hours as it transported us across 17 years and half of France as Jean Valjean is involved in a cat and mouse pursuit by Javert.

Despite the longevity of this show it is bursting with the energy, enthusiasm, talent and commitment of the hard working performers. They lead us through so many heart- wrenching emotions but the comedic content is stronger too thanks to the Thenardiers , played so joyfully by Sophie- Louise Dann and Martin Ball.

Killian Donnelly gives a masterful performance as Jean Valjean, dramatically and vocally, displaying all his different levels of frustration, anger, faith, compassion and redemption. His sung prayer Bring Him Home, was a clear highlight.

Nic Greenshields plays Javert whose strict principles and faith drive his pursuit of Valjean leading to his own self- destruction. He conveys all the contradictions in his character from the composed public figure. to the tormented private man. Stars was another standout number.

Harry Apps making his professional debut as Marius displayed great sensitivity and a beautiful voice whilst Bournemouth actor Will Richardson shone in the role of revolutionary Enjoras.

Everyone involved in the incredible show should be applauded for one of the best nights you will ever spend in a theatre.