If you've always dreamed a dream of seeing the musical Les Misérables live in a spectacular arena setting, now's your chance. The beloved production is officially marching towards Melbourne for the Australian leg of a massive world tour, following rave reviews and sold-out crowds across the UK and major European cities.
Describing itself as “the most spectacular arena production of a musical ever staged”, this epic tour is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the world’s longest-running musical, the record-breaking London production of Les Mis, which is still playing to sell-out audiences today.
Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular will arrive at Rod Laver Arena on May 14 for a 15-show run. Super-producer Cameron Mackintosh has assembled a world class creative team, with the exciting new production design being specifically created for each venue – and the international cast is also absolutely top tier.
Australia’s leading lady, Marina Prior, is playing Madame Thénardier. Maria is certified musical theatre royalty – before she blew everyone away as the original Christine Daaé in the Australian premiere of The Phantom of the Opera in the early ’90s, she also played Cosette in the original Australian production of Les Misérables.
Highly recognisable British comedian, actor and author Matt Lucas (best known for Little Britain) is also reprising the role of Thénardier. He first triumphed in the role in the 25th Anniversary Concert at The O2 in London, and later in the production at the Gielgud, before starring in the West End stage production.
The celebrated cast of Les Mis alumni also includes Tony Award winner Alfie Boe and British musical theatre star Killian Donnelly sharing the role of Jean Valjean, and West End legends Michael Ball and Bradley Jaden sharing the role of Javert. Internationally acclaimed theatre and music artist Rachelle Ann Go reprises her critically-acclaimed performance as Fantine, alongside Beatrice Penny-Touré as Cosette, Shan Ako as Éponine and Jac Yarrow as Marius.
Les Misérables is undisputedly one of the world’s most popular musicals, seen by more than 130 million people worldwide in 54 countries and in 22 languages – not to mention the iconic 2012 film adaptation featuring Australia’s own Hugh Jackman and Russell Crowe. Boublil and Schönberg’s iconic score includes classic songs like ‘I Dreamed a Dream’, ‘On My Own’, ‘Stars’, ‘Bring Him Home’, ‘Do You Hear the People Sing?’, ‘One Day More’, ‘Empty Chairs at Empty Tables’, ‘Master Of The House’ and many more.
A legendary story of revolution set in early 19th-century France, Les Mis resonates all the more strongly the world today (did you catch that viral clip of the US Army Chorus performing ‘Do You Hear the People Sing?’ as an act of resistance at the 2025 White House Governors Ball?).
Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular is presented by Cameron Mackintosh in association with Nick Grace Management and Live Nation Australia. Find out more and book your tickets here.
