Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about ”Les Miserables”:
Q-How do you pronounce ”Les Miserables”?
A-The key is understanding that the last two or three letters of the average French word, like the end of an artichoke leaf, should be discarded. Thus, ”Les Miserables” becomes LAY Mizza ROB. Or Lay Miz, for short.
Incidentally, the lead characters are pronounced thus: The hero, Jean Valjean, is ZHON val-ZHON; the cruel inspector Javert is zha-VAIR.
Q-How much of the show is in French?
A-Approximately? None of it. The characters have French names, but that`s it. This show has been painstakingly translated into English and is very easy to understand. There aren`t even any big words.
Q-Should I run out and buy the Cliff`s Notes for ”Les Miserables”
before heading to the theater?
A-Not necessary. If you ever watched the TV series ”The Fugitive,” you already understand the essential conflict: a just and innocent man (Valjean), trapped by circumstance on the wrong side of the law, trying to evade a relentless, implacable policeman (Javert). There`s more than enough exposition (explanatory passages) in the show to guide you along.
Q-Can I appreciate this show from the nose-bleed seats?
A-We`ll never know. The upper two balconies in the Auditorium Theatre are being closed for this show. In addition, the ”Les Miz” producers have closed off half the first balcony and removed other seats as well; the 3,998-seat Auditorium is down to an intimate 2,570 seats for the run of ”Les Miz,” and there isn`t a bad view in the house.
Q-You mean I should grab the cheaper seats?
A-If you can find them, sure. There are more top-price seats than all other seats combined. The cheaper seats are the ones farthest in back and farthest to the sides. But you still can see everything.
