Casting for Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, Les Misérables, has been announced for its much anticipated engagement at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts direct from a celebrated two-and-a-half year Broadway engagement.
Nick Cartell portrays the fugitive ‘Jean Valjean.’ He is joined by Josh Davis as ‘Javert,’ Jimmy Smagula as ‘Thénardier,’ Allison Guinn as ‘Madame Thénardier,’ Mary Kate Moore as ‘Fantine,’ Matt Shingledecker as ‘Enjolras,’ Paige Smallwood as ‘Éponine,’ Joshua Grosso as ‘Marius’ and Jillian Butler as ‘Cosette.’ Annabel Cole and Mackenzie Mercer alternate in the role of ‘Little Cosette/Young Éponine.’ Robbie Crandall and Jasper Davenport alternate in the role of ‘Gavroche.’
The ensemble includes John Ambrosino, Felipe Barbosa Bombonato, Julia Ellen Richardson, Olivia Dei Cicchi, Brent Comer, Kelsey Denae, Caitlin Finnie, Jillian Gray, Matt Hill, Monté J. Howell, Stavros Koumbaros, Andrew Love, Andrew Maughan, Maggie Elizabeth May, Darrell Morris, Jr., Bree Murphy, Domonique Paton, Tim Quartier, Erin Ramirez, Patrick Rooney, Brett Stoelker, Kayla Teruel, Kyle Timson and Christopher Viljoen.
With glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo, this breathtaking production of Les Misérables, which broke box office records during its pre-Broadway tour, has left both audiences and critics awestruck, cheering “Les Miz is born again!” (NY1).
Cameron Mackintosh said, “I’m delighted that after a four-year absence this glorious production is once again touring the major cities across North America and is more spectacular than ever.”
Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. Featuring one of the greatest scores of all time, with thrilling and beloved songs including “I Dreamed A Dream,” “On My Own,” “Stars,” “Bring Him Home,” “One Day More,” “Do You Hear the People Sing” and many more, this epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. Along with the Oscar-winning movie version, it has now been seen by more than 130 million people in 44 countries and in 22 languages around the globe. Les Misérables is still the world’s most popular musical, breaking box office records everywhere in its 35th year.
It was a pleasure to sit down with South Florida native Joshua Grosso (Marius) for this exclusive Hotspots interview:
When did you catch the performing bug?
I would say very early on. I was always involved in the arts somehow. My dad was a preacher and I started performing at his church. Later on, in High School, I discovered musical theater and the rest is history.
What was your first professional gig(s)?
I did “Man of La Mancha” when I was in college in West Palm Beach, but I can’t remember the theater. I also did “Light in the Piazza” in Pittsburg at the Front Porch Theatrical.
When did you know performing would be your career?
I didn’t, all I knew and know is I have an interest for it and a love for it. I am so lucky to have the opportunity to continue to do this, but I don’t think there was ever a time where I said I am doing this for the rest of my life. However, I am so thankful to continue doing this.
How did you get cast in in Les Miz?
I went in for a typical audition, and I got called back 4 times for extensive auditions, and then I got the call. I really enjoyed the audition process.
Are you excited to be coming back to South Florida?
Yeah of course, I miss home. I never performed at the main theater at the Broward Center before, so I am so excited.
Is there more pressure on stage here in your home town?
I say the pressure is about the same as always. I always try and do my best wherever I am.
Besides this role, what has been your favorite role?
I would say two: Malcolm in the “Full Monty” and Benedict in Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing.”
What’s your dream/fantasy role?
I don’t have one. I am only concentrating on what challenges me next. Whatever role I think I can’t do is the one I try and tackle.
What should our readers expect from the touring company of Les Miz?
The beautiful thing about doing a show like this is it’s the same show that everybody knows. However, this cast is on the younger side and there are different interpretations, but it’s the same beating heart.
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🇫🇷 Hard to believe we’ve hit 700. Sometimes it feels like the first 100. Here’s to many more ❤️
For more information on Joshua Grosso, you can follow him: Instagram.com/joshgrosso
To date, Les Misérables remains the 5th longest-running Broadway production of all time.
Tickets for Les Misérables, are available at the Broward Center AutoNation Box Office, 201 SW Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33312, Browardcenter.org or call 954.462.0222. Ticket prices start at $40.50*.
For a sneak peek, please visit LesMiz.com.
