World’s longest running musical arrives in Geelong

protagonist by night, Brad Beales is readying to take the lead role of Jean Valjean in Les Miserable when it returns to the Playhouse Theatre on January 18.

Mr Beales said over his performing career spanning two decades it would be his fourth dalliance with Les Mis, and third time playing Jean, brought to life by Footlight Productions.

“I’ve lost count of how many shows I’ve been in, I’ve been in stage shows since 1993, there would be well over 25 or more,” Mr Beales said.

“This is my fourth time performing Les Miserables. The first time was in the role of Marius in 1995. This is my third time as Jean, first in 2000 with the Geelong Lyric Theatre Society and the second with Footlight Productions in 2013.

“The show and novel is enormous. I felt on the cusp of being a bit young and naive for the role the first time, then in my forties I felt more comfortable in my skin and now I’m 50; every time you get a little more insight into the character and a little more confident.”

One of the world’s most iconic and longest running musicals, Les Miserables tells the story of Jean Valjean, a former convict who spends a lifetime seeking redemption.

Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France and the aftermath of the French Revolution Footlight Productions producer Peter Wills said the sets and costumes were impressive.

“Les Miserables is directed by Alister Smith, winner of the Victorian Music Theatre Guild Award for Best Director for Wicked staged by Footlight Productions in 2017,” he said.

“With original costumes by Sandra Brodie and a stunning set by Nathan Weyers make this show a visual spectacular.

“I’ve been involved in local theatre for 40 years and have produced around 30 productions in that time. This production has an epic set, outstanding orchestra, original costumes and one of the strongest casts we have ever had in Footlight’s 15 years of staging shows.”

Mr Beales said performing was a passion of his and when he’s not working as a full-time primary school teacher at Clifton Springs Primary he’s rehearsing for the show.

“We’ve been rehearsing since October. Whether or not you’re a great principal it just doesn’t work without a strong ensemble. You’re only as good as the people around you,” he said.

Citing a love for the audience and the experience live theatre brings, Mr Beales said the Geelong theatre scene is booming.

“Compared to ’93, Geelong theatre is thriving particularly young people coming through. It’s not nerdy to do drama, it’s held in high-esteem. People in the past would think if it’s not a Melbourne production it’s not quality but now Geelong can be as a good as anything else you’d see in a capital city.”