Theater News

Toronto to Bring Ramin Karimloo Home in Les Miz

West End star Karimloo will make his hometown debut as Jean Valjean.

Ramin Karimloo as Jean Valjean
Ramin Karimloo as Jean Valjean
© Alastair Muir

Cameron Mackintosh and his team will bring Toronto its very own production of Les Miserables this September, according to The Toronto Star. The musical will star Ramin Karimloo (Love Never Dies) as protagonist Jean Valjean, who serves a nineteen year prison sentence for stealing a loaf of bread for his family. Valjean then decides to break parole and start a new life after an inspirational encounter with a bishop.

Although he is a native Canadian, this will be Karimloo’s Toronto debut. Karimloo has performed the role of Valjean on the West End , and also played the role of Enjolras in the 25th anniversary concert version at the O2 in London.

Opposite Sierra Boggess, Ramin performed in the 25th Anniversary Production of The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall, and originated the Phantom in the sequel Love Never Dies in London.

Also expected to star in the production are Melissa O’Neil (Jesus Christ Superstar) as Eponine, Mark Uhre as Enjolras (Elf the Musical), Genevieve Leclerc of the current US tour as Fantine, and Cliff Saunders (The 39 Steps) as Thenardier. The rest of the casting is still in process, and producers may bring actors from the current United States tour. Creative team details have yet to be announced.

The West End production of the Boublil, Schönberg, and Kretzmer’s mega-musical has been running since 1985, and there is also a production currently touring the US. The recent movie adaptation of Les Miserables, starring Hugh Jackman, is smashing records as makes its way to become the highest grossing movie musical of all time.