Les Miserables Lyrics – All Songs from the Musical

History of creation.

The idea to create the musical, which is based on Victor Hugo's novel, came to Alain Boublil, a French lyricist, during a performance of "Oliver!" in London. He shared the idea with French composer Claude-Michel Schönberg and developed the preliminary scenario together. They analyzed each character's physical and emotional condition and the public's reaction to them. Schönberg began to compose the music, and Boublil worked on the lyrics. Two years later, they made a trial two-hour recording, with Schönberg singing all the roles and accompanying himself on the piano.

The album with this material was recorded in 1980, featuring singers such as Maurice Barrier, Jacques Mercier, Rose Laurens, Yvan Dautin, Marie-France Roussel, Richard Dewitte, Fabienne Guyon, Michel Dufour, Michel Sardou, Françoise Bernard, and others. The stage version premiered in Paris in 1980, directed by Robert Hossein. Over 100 performances, the show attracted more than 500,000 attendees. Most of the cast remained the same as on the album.

1985 Original London Cast: Album

The English libretto, written by Herbert Kretzmer and James Fenton, was significantly revised and expanded. They departed from a literal translation of the French original, adding a prologue detailing Jean Valjean's background. The original English version premiered in London five years after the French debut. The show was conducted under the musical direction of John Cameron, who had contributed to the orchestrations for the French concept album. The roles were played by Colm Wilkinson, Roger Allam, Keith Michell, Patti LuPone, Zoe Hart, Jennifer O'Mahony, David Akers, Gillian Brander, and John Caton.

1987 Original Broadway Cast: Album

Randy Graff became the first Fantine on Broadway.

Whats next

On January 5, 2010, "Les Misérables" ("Les Mis" or "Les Miz") celebrated its 10,000th performance. The Broadway premiere opened on March 12, 1987. The audience had pre-booked tickets totaling over $4 million. The performance has changed, including improved lighting effects for Javert's suicide scene. The show closed in 2008 but returned in 2014.

Since then, "Les Misérables" has continued to enchant audiences worldwide. The musical's 2019 revival in London included new staging and projections that improved the visual storytelling. Furthermore, the 2012 film adaptation introduced the musical to a larger audience, gaining seven Academy Award nominations and winning three, including Best Supporting Actress for Anne Hathaway. The show recently marked its 35th anniversary with special performances and celebrations, reinforcing its legacy as one of the most beloved musicals ever. The production has also adapted to modern times by streaming select performances online, ensuring that even during difficult times, the spirit of "Les Misérables" lives on.

40th Anniversary Arena Spectacular.

In 2025, Les Misérables celebrates its 40th anniversary with a grand arena tour, commencing in Belfast and spanning over 15 countries. This production features a star-studded cast, including Alfie Boe as Jean Valjean and Michael Ball as Javert. The staging combines concert lighting with theatrical elements, creating an atmosphere likened to a blend of a rock concert and a football match .

Return to France: Théâtre du Châtelet Revival.

After years of limited success in its homeland, Les Misérables returns to Paris with a new French-language production at the Théâtre du Châtelet. Directed by Ladislas Chollat, this version aims to resonate more deeply with French audiences by emphasizing the story's revolutionary themes and incorporating a diverse cast.

Notable Cast Changes and Performances.

In a recent performance in Melbourne, actor Matt Lucas, portraying Thénardier, had to exit mid-show due to a sudden health issue. He was promptly replaced by understudy Connor Jones, ensuring the continuity of the performance.

North American Tour Continues.

The North American tour of Les Misérables is in full swing, with performances scheduled across various cities. The production maintains its reputation for delivering powerful performances and continues to captivate audiences nationwide.

Upcoming Tour Dates.

• New Haven, CT: June 1–6, 2026
• Boston, MA: June 8–20, 2026

Questions and Answers.

What is the significance of the 40th anniversary arena tour?

It marks four decades of Les Misérables, featuring grand staging and a star-studded cast.

How is the new French production different from previous ones?

It emphasizes revolutionary themes and includes a more diverse cast to resonate with French audiences.

Who are the notable cast members in the arena tour?

Alfie Boe as Jean Valjean and Michael Ball as Javert lead the cast.

What happened during the Melbourne performance involving Matt Lucas?

Matt Lucas exited mid-show due to a health issue and was replaced by understudy Connor Jones.

Where can I catch the North American tour of Les Misérables?

Upcoming performances are scheduled in New Haven, CT, and Boston, MA, in June 2026.