'Les Miserables': PTC is the first regional company to mount the sell-out musical

A couple of misconceptions need to be cleared up concerning Pioneer Theatre Company's historic production of Alain Bolublil and Claude-Michel Shonberg's "Les Miserables."

First of all, this is not a touring production. PTC is the first regional company in the United States to be officially licensed by London-based producer Cameron Mackintosh to stage its own production.

One recent caller also wondered if, because ticket prices are lower during the week than on weekends, maybe there is a less-experienced cast on weekdays. The same cast will be performing every night — except for the possibility of an occasional understudy. (It's common practice for theaters to hike the prices a bit on weekends.)

PTC Artistic Director Charles Morey is directing the epic musical, with guest artist Karen Azenberg providing the "musical staging" (directing the choreographed segments).

This all-new local production has been setting records for the Salt Lake City-based company. Even before this week's opening night, the production was already extended by six additional weeks. "It's not as if we're just extending on hope," said Morey. "We don't extend the show until the previous week is 90 percent sold out.

"Four other regional companies obtained the rights to produce 'Les Miserables' over the next year and the producers have been very selective on who they let do the project. It's a great honor and privilege to be the first (in the United States)."

Morey said he's been getting calls from colleagues across the country. "'How did you get the rights?' 'Can you help us get the rights?' 'Do you have any pull?' And, of course, I have no 'pull' whatsoever."

Many of the leading performers for this production have experience in Broadway and touring productions of the show, which means that "in addition to being probably the most expensive production Pioneer Theatre Company has ever done, we have more Equity contracts than we've ever had before, and more out-of-town contracts."

William Solo, who is playing Jean Valjean, was understudy to Colm Wilkinson in 1987, then starred in the role himself from 1989-91. He also performed in all three national touring companies of the show and has also been featured in the touring editions of "Phantom of the Opera," "Sunset Boulevard" and "Camelot."

Valjean's relentless foe, Inspector Javert, will be played by Merwin Foard, who had the same role on Broadway and was also seen in the recent Broadway revival of "Sweeney Todd."