The Arsht Center for the Performing Arts presents the return of Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, Les Misérables from Tuesday, June 18 through Sunday, June 23.
Cameron Mackintosh said, “The phenomenon of Les Misérables never fails to astound me. No show in history has been able to continually reinvent itself and remain a contemporary musical attracting new generations of brilliant new talent, many of whom go on to international stardom. No show in the world has ever demonstrated the survival of the human spirit better than Les Miz, and it’s time to let the people sing again. We are all thrilled to be Bringing Her Home to you.”
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. This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history.
Nick Cartell portrays the fugitive ‘Jean Valjean’ with Preston Truman Boyd as ‘Inspector Javert.’ They are joined by Matt Crowle as ‘Thénardier,’ Victoria Huston-Elem as ‘Madame Thénardier,’ Haley Dortch as ‘Fantine,’ Devin Archer as ‘Enjolras,’ Mya Rena Hunter as ‘Éponine,’ Jake David Smith as ‘Marius’ and Delaney Guyer as ‘Cosette.’ Azalea Wolfe and Ava Buesing alternate in the role of ‘Little Cosette/Young Éponine.’ Leo Caravano and Milo Maharlika alternate in the role of ‘Gavroche.’
Boublil & Schönberg’s magnificent score of Les Misérables includes the classic songs “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” “Bring Him Home,” “Do You Hear The People Sing?,” “One Day More,” “Master of the House” and many more. Seen by over 130 million people worldwide in 53 countries, 438 cities and 22 languages, Les Misérables is undisputedly still one of the world’s most popular musicals.
Since Cameron Mackintosh first conceived this acclaimed new production of Les Misérables in 2009 to celebrate the show’s 25th anniversary, it has taken the world by storm continuing to enjoy record-breaking runs in countries including North America, Australia, Japan, France and Spain. It is currently on stage in London’s West End and on tour in The Netherlands, Belgium and Korea with a new tour of Japan in 2024.
To date, Les Misérables remains the 6th longest-running Broadway production of all time. It was a pleasure to sit down with Haley Dortch (Fantine) for this exclusive Hotspots interview.
At what age did you begin performing and how did it happen?
I started doing musicals in middle school, but I started taking theater seriously as a sophomore in high school, so around the age of 16. Before that I was a volleyball player.
When did you know performing would be your career?
When I won the Broadway Dallas high school musical theater awards is when I realized I wanted to establish it as my career.
Other than this show, what has been your favorite role so far?
I think I have to go with Delores in Sister Act the Musical. It was my first time stepping into leading a production and the character is so much fun. In addition, Delores and I have a lot of similarities.
What’s your fantasy role (a role you haven’t played but would die to play)?
There is a million and one, but I would love to play any of the Schuyler sisters in Hamilton or Elphaba in Wicked.
Ok, what’s your favorite Schuyler sister?
Probably Eliza, but I would probably play Angelica.
Is it intimidating being in such an iconic show and playing such an iconic character?
Oh definitely! It’s a lot of pressure as everybody has their rendition of what they want to see in the show and of course the legacy of people who have played this role before. I realize being my authentic self is the best way to play this character and I am slowly taking the pressure off myself and learning to enjoy it.
Is it hard being on the road all the time?
For sure, it’s hard to travel with only 2 suitcases and a dog. It’s super hard being away from my friends and family. But the perks are seeing cities I would never have had the chance to see.
You are part of our LGBTQ+ community, and our girl readers want to know are you single or taken? If taken, what makes her the perfect person for you?
I am taken, and she is perfect for me because she is very understanding and patient and makes me a better person.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Silly, caring and fun.
What do you do for fun?
I am like a grandmother…LOL…I like to read books and crochet.
What should our readers expect from this touring company of, “Les Misérables”?
I think they should expect a new and fresh outtake of this production. There are so many brilliant actors on the stage and tis a timeless story that is still amazing. Being able to see live theater again is truly amazing.
To find out more about Haley, go to Instagram.com/haleydortch
Tickets to Les Misérables are $45-$165* and may be purchased now online at arshtcenter.org or at the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling (305) 949-6722.
