Meet the cast of iconic musical Les Misérables to be staged in Abu Dhabi

I was first introduced to Victor Hugo’s classic novel Les Misérables by way of a television program broadcast on Dubai’s Channel 33 in the 1980s, an experience that left me profoundly moved as a young teenager.

A tragic tale of love, struggle, and redemption set in 19th century Paris, Les Misérables chronicles the journey of former convict Jean Valjean, whose life intertwines with that of Fantine, a poverty-stricken young mother struggling to raise her daughter, Cosette, and the obsessive, relentless Javert, a police inspector who vows to bring Valjean to justice for an old crime.

Les Misérables has inspired many adaptations, one of the most popular being a London West End musical that marks its 40th anniversary this year.

UAE fans can experience this beloved musical phenomenon in the form of a new production, Les Misérables: The Arena Spectacular, which is coming to Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena in April as part of a world tour. Les Misérables: The Arena Spectacular has been specially designed for larger venues, boasts a talented cast and orchestra of over 65 people and, will, of course, feature memorable songs like I Dreamed a Dream, One Day More, and Bring Him Home.

Gulf News chatted with three of Les Misérables: The Arena Spectacular’s lead cast members, including Irish tenor singer and actor Killian Donnelly, who plays Jean Valjean.

Donnelly, who has almost 20 years of experience with Les Misérables’ London troupe and even played a role in the 2012 film, vividly recalled how seeing the musical for the first time was “life changing.”

“I’d never seen anything like it. It excites me to know that I could be part of an audience member’s first theatrical experience,” he said of bringing Les Misérables: The Arena tour to Abu Dhabi. “Les Misérables has been seen by millions across the world — many again and again — so to be part of that is an honour. But also to be bringing it to Abu Dhabi to be seen for the first time by a whole new generation is something very special.”

Donnelly added that being part of the 40th year of Les Misérables truly feels like a “full-circle” moment. “Joining the show in London and being in and out of it since then has been extremely rewarding. From playing ensemble roles, performing in The 25th Anniversary Concert, to performing in the movie and finally taking on the role of Jean Valjean, it genuinely feels I’ve grown up with Les Misérables. You never really say goodbye to the show. As you age, the show doesn’t — therefore I’m always grateful whenever I’m asked back. So, if this concert is my final ‘au revoir’, then what a ride it’s been!”

Filipino star Rachelle Ann Go, who plays Fantine, has performed earlier in Abu Dhabi as part of the Hamilton musical, an experience she referred to as “incredible.”

She said the emirate had “a vibrant and growing cultural scene”, adding, “You can feel the passion for the arts everywhere. What stood out to me the most was how diverse and engaged the audience was — people from all over the world came together to experience the Hamilton show, and their energy was amazing. It’s exciting to see how Abu Dhabi continues to embrace theatre and live performances. The enthusiasm and appreciation for storytelling, whether through music, dance, or drama, make it such a special place to perform. I can’t wait to return and be part of that magic again with Les Misérables!”

Go shared that the role of tragic Fantine resonated with her on many levels, especially now that she herself is a mother. “She’s a woman who sacrifices everything for her child, driven by pure love and unwavering determination. That kind of selflessness is incredibly powerful. What I find most compelling about Fantine is her resilience. Life throws unimaginable hardships her way — she’s judged, discarded, and left to fight for survival — but through it all, her love for Cosette never wavers. She represents so many women who endure struggles in silence, who are forced to make impossible choices just to protect the ones they love.

Playing her isn’t just about singing I Dreamed a Dream with emotion; it’s about bringing depth to her journey — her hopes, her pain, and her undying love.”

British actor Bradley Jaden said bringing his character Javert to life on stage for every performance was challenging. He regards Javert, described as an authoritarian figure without empathy, as “one of the most iconic roles in Musical Theatre.”

“The weight that comes with such a role is more than the task, I find. Javert is a hugely complex character and not just solely lacking in empathy. He is driven and a lone wolf. He is seeking justice and trying to climb the ladder of success. I'm sure a lot of people can relate to this. I'm also extremely lucky to work with such talent amongst an ensemble that showcases my strength without saying anything. It's a hugely ensemble piece and a true team effort.”

A performer whose repertoire includes world-renowned musicals and a recently launched debut album, Jaden calls music “the greatest gift.”

“I’ve been extremely lucky in my career to have worked in some of the greatest musicals of all time; they have taught me so much about myself and how to go on to the next job. Music is my favourite thing in the world. You will never catch me without a pair of headphones in my pocket or round my neck. I actually don't listen to musicals, but it's still the escapism that I search for. It's the same on stage, and we hope the audience go on a journey whilst watching Les Misérables.”

Don’t miss it!

Les Misérables: The Arena Spectacular will be staged at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, from April 10-20. Tickets can be purchased at etihadarena.ae and abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net