Les Miserables Review at Sondheim Theatre London

Over 40 years since its stage debut, Les Miserables remains the world’s longest running musical. The show has been translated into 22 languages and shown in over 50 countries to more than 150 million people. Our timeline history of Les Miserables takes us back to the release of Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel, from which the musical is adapted, resulting in a soul-stirring and heartbreaking journey of love, rebellion and redemption against the backdrop of the French Revolution. 

The original French musical, created by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg, was later developed and produced by Cameron Mackintosh in an English-language version with the Royal Shakespeare Company, adapted and directed by Trevor Nunn and John Caird. It is a sung-through musical which spans decades, impressively condensing Hugo’s sprawling epic (at just under 1500 pages) into the show’s 2-hour 50-minute runtime. The story follows Jean Valjean, a former prisoner who embarks upon a journey to become “an honest man”, while his prison guard and rival, Javert, attempts to track him down. Valjean later adopts the daughter of a poor factory worker, Fantine, who grows up and falls in love with Marius, a member of a student group of revolutionaries.  

The casting for its May 2026 run at the Sondheim Theatre is impeccable, featuring a spellbinding performance from Martha Kirby as Fantine, whose devastating ballad ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ reveals her tragic character’s crushed hopes. Sam Oladeinde as the formidable antagonist Javert bestows just the right amount of threat, and perfectly delivers several belters, as does Jean Valjean, soulfully played by Ian McIntosh (also starring in Jesus Christ Superstar). Perhaps most commendable is Jess Folley’s Eponine, whose unrequited love and ultimate sacrifice for the object of her affection is played with gut-wrenching vulnerability. Her haunting rendition of ‘On My Own’ is a goose-bump-inducing experience, and the solo earned her the loudest cheer of the show. Harry Hepple and Lizzie Bea also provide welcome comic relief as the greedy innkeepers, the Thenardiers.  

Inspired by Victor Hugo’s own paintings, the set design is a creative combination of cinematic projected artwork and movable scenery, transporting the audience into the sewers and onto the barricades of 19^th century Paris. Despite its lengthy runtime, there is never a dull moment, and the narrative rollicks along, seamlessly transitioning from soliloquies to love ballads, contrasting intimate solos with huge ensemble harmonies. Schönberg’soperatic score requires a versatile vocal range, which the entire ensemble deliver. ‘Do You Hear the People Sing’ remains a rousing anthem of social justice and the fight for freedom, and Herbert Kretzmer’s lyrics are beautifully poetic, lingering in the mind long after the curtain has fallen.  

Since its West End debut in 1985, Les Mis remains a timeless and unforgettable masterpiece. From its iconic opening brass notes to its spine tingling, punch-the-air finale, it hits you on a visceral level, masterfully conjuring often overwhelming emotions of sorrow, joy, hope and liberation. Simultaneously heartbreaking and uplifting, one leaves the theatre feeling exhausted, exhilarated, and with a full heart. 

Les Miserables is currently booking at the Sondheim Theatre to March 2027.

Where I Sat

I was sat in Grand Circle D6. As it is quite far from the stage I was worried about having an obscured view; however, whilst you don’t feel quite as immersed in the action compared to the stalls, the positioning offered a clear view of the set. Our guide to the best seats for Les Miserables in London is essential for those heading to see this timeless show in the West End.

Have You Seen Les Miserables?

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Reviewed by Gala Woolleyor SeatPlan, June 2026.