THE WEEK OF
February 26, 2003
Les Misérables
Music festival
Datebook
Russell Banks
Society
Photograph by Joan Marcus
The entire cast of Les Misérables performs 'One Day More' during the finale of Act 1.
Les Misérables: Revolutionary musical plays San Jose
By Estelle Pagnoux
Les Misérables is back in the Bay Area with a revamped set, high-tech sound system and all new costumes, reminding Broadway enthusiasts of the dramatic story of heartbreak, love and betrayal that was all the rage in the late '80s and '90s.

American Musical Theatre hosts the touring production of Les Misérables—a replica of the show still playing on Broadway—at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, March 5­23. Based on Victor Hugo's novel, the play takes place over 30 turbulent years in 19th-century France, following the life of fugitive Jean Valjean, whose lifelong struggle to avoid capture from the cruel and venomous Inspector Javert is marked by moral and emotional challenges and triumphs. Valjean becomes an unlikely hero, saving lives, leading a revolution and looking after a young prostitute's daughter, after her tragic death.

This Tony award-winning epic saga plays out with an emotional score, including the songs "One More Day" and "On My Own."

Call 888.455.7469 for tickets or visit www.amtsj.org. Tickets are $39.50 to $68.50. Group discounts also are available.