CWU's Grand Production of Les Miserables Premiers May 9

Epic and inspiring, Les Miserables has thrilled audiences all over the world. One of the most popular musical productions in the world, Les Miserables will be performed by Central Washington University’s Central Theatre Ensemble, accompanied by the CWU Orchestra, beginning May 9.

The classic story of human frailty and triumph, set against the background of the political upheaval of 19th century France, will be brought to life by CWU's David Brown, musical director and conductor; Terri Brown, stage director; and Anneliese Childress, choreographer. A 40-plus-member cast and crew features Ellensburg brothers Ben Sasnett as Jean Valjean and Joseph Sasnett as Javert, and includes an irresistible cadre of child actors from local elementary schools.

“This is one of our most ambitious productions,” said Scott Robinson, theatre arts chair and professor. “Our students have really pushed their personal and professional boundaries to create an exceptional work of theatre.”

Watch a short video of a Les Miserables rehearsal on the CWU YouTube channel.

The show will also feature a 140-pound pig. Princess Buttercup is a Vietnamese potbellied pig who is the Sasnett family pet. Although there isn’t a real pig in the original story, Princess Buttercup will be used to underscore the unseemly traits of one of the characters.

Tickets are $15-$20 for general admission, $12-$18 for seniors and students without ID, and $7 for CWU and EHS students with ID. Special dinner and show packages are also available through production partner Dakota Café. Tickets are available at www.cwu.edu/theatre/tickets, the CWU Welcome Center or at the Wildcat Shop. The musical will run May 9, 10, 15, 16, and 17 at 7:30 p.m., and May 11 and 18 at 2:00 p.m. in McConnell Auditorium.

Les Miserables is made possible by a generous contribution from Knudson Lumber of Ellensburg and support from myellensburg.com.

The group photo of Les Miserables cast is courtesy of Scott Robinson.

Media Contact: Valerie Chapman-Stockwell, Public Affairs, 509-963-1518, valeriec@cwu.edu