Les Miserables
Sondheim TheatreThe world's longest-running musical continues to stir the soul at the Sondheim Theatre. Cameron Mackintosh's legendary production of Les Misérables features Victor Hugo's epic tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption, with iconic songs including 'I Dreamed a Dream', 'On My Own', and 'One Day More'.
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2 hours 50 minutes (inc intermission)
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What is Les Misérables about?
Based on Victor Hugo's classic 1862 novel, Les Misérables follows Jean Valjean, a man released from 19 years in prison for stealing bread to feed his sister's starving child. After a bishop shows him mercy, Valjean seeks redemption and a new life, but is relentlessly pursued by the ruthless Inspector Javert. Against the backdrop of 19th-century France and the Paris Uprising of 1832, the musical weaves together stories of love, sacrifice, passion, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Why is Les Misérables so popular?
Les Misérables is the world's longest-running musical, having celebrated its 40th anniversary in October 2025. Since opening in London on 8 October 1985, this epic theatrical phenomenon has been seen by over 130 million people worldwide in 55 countries and has been translated into 22 languages. Now playing at the Sondheim Theatre, the show has won over 180 major awards including 8 Tony Awards and 4 Olivier Awards.
What are the famous songs in Les Misérables?
Boublil and Schönberg's magnificent score includes some of musical theatre's most powerful and beloved songs: 'I Dreamed a Dream', 'On My Own', 'Bring Him Home', 'One Day More', 'Master of the House', 'Do You Hear the People Sing?', 'Stars', 'Castle on a Cloud', and 'Empty Chairs at Empty Tables'. The soaring music creates an unforgettable emotional experience.
Is Les Misérables better than the movie?
The stage production offers an intensity and emotional power that the 2012 film, despite its star-studded cast, cannot fully replicate. The live orchestrations, the energy of the barricade scenes, and the raw emotion of performances just metres away create a theatrical experience that regularly moves audiences to standing ovations. Many fans recommend seeing both - but the stage show remains the definitive Les Mis experience.
What are the best seats for Les Misérables?
The Stalls and Dress Circle at the Sondheim Theatre offer excellent views of the show's epic staging, particularly the revolving barricade. Central seats allow you to fully appreciate the scale of the production. The Grand Circle offers good value with clear sightlines, though you'll be further from the emotional intensity of the performances.
Should I see Les Misérables or Hamilton?
Both are epic musicals about revolutionary periods in history, but they offer different experiences. Les Misérables is a sweeping classical score telling a story of 19th-century France, while Hamilton uses hip-hop to tell the story of America's founding. Les Mis tends to appeal to those who love traditional musical theatre, while Hamilton attracts audiences who enjoy contemporary music styles.
Know before you go
Is Les Misérables suitable for children?
Les Misérables is recommended for children aged 8 and above due to mature themes including death, violence, poverty, and prostitution. Children under the age of 5 will not be admitted to the Sondheim Theatre. Parents should consider whether their child can handle emotionally intense content.
How long is Les Misérables?
The performance lasts approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, including one interval.
Does Les Misérables have gunshots?
Yes, Les Misérables contains gunfire sound effects during the barricade scenes, as well as smoke and flashing light effects. These are integral to depicting the 1832 Paris Uprising that forms a central part of the story.
Visitor guidelines
Can under 16s attend Les Misérables alone?
No, all guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by and seated next to an adult when attending Les Misérables at the Sondheim Theatre.
What happens if I'm late to Les Misérables?
Latecomers will only be admitted during a suitable break in the show. The powerful opening 'Prologue' sets up the entire story, so arriving on time is strongly recommended.
Can I take photos at Les Misérables?
Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited during all performances of Les Misérables.
Are there bars at the Sondheim Theatre?
Yes, refreshments are available at the theatre bars before the show and during the interval. Please ensure all mobile phones are switched off before the performance begins.
Cast and creatives
Who is in the Les Misérables London cast?
The current London cast features Ian McIntosh as Jean Valjean, Sam Oladeinde as Javert, and Lucie Jones as Fantine. They are joined by Adam Gillen as Thénardier, Claire Machin as Madame Thénardier, Thiago Phillip Felizardo as Marius, Amena El-Kindy as Éponine, Joe Griffiths-Brown as Enjolras, and Izzi Levine as Cosette. Harry Hepple and Lizzie Bea join as Thénardier and Madame Thénardier from February 2026.
Who wrote Les Misérables?
Les Misérables features music by Claude-Michel Schönberg, lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer (English adaptation), and original French text by Alain Boublil. The current London production is directed by James Powell and Laurence Connor. The original London production was adapted and directed by Trevor Nunn and John Caird.
Awards
What awards has Les Misérables won?
Les Misérables has won over 180 major awards worldwide. In London, it won the 1985 Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical for Patti LuPone and a special Olivier recognition award in 2025 for its 40th anniversary. On Broadway, it won eight Tony Awards in 1987 including Best Musical, Best Book, and Best Score. The 2012 film adaptation won three Academy Awards including Best Supporting Actress for Anne Hathaway.
Opening times
Evenings: 7.30pm Monday – SaturdayMatinees: 2.30pm Thursday & Saturday
Frequently asked questions
How long is Les Misérables with interval?
Les Misérables runs for approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, including one interval.
Is Les Misérables appropriate for a 7 year old?
Les Misérables is recommended for ages 8 and above due to mature themes including death, violence, and poverty. Children under 5 are not permitted. Parents should consider whether their child can handle emotionally intense content including the death of major characters.
Where is Les Misérables playing in London?
Les Misérables plays at the Sondheim Theatre (formerly Queen's Theatre), Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 6BA. The nearest tube stations are Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square.
What time does Les Misérables start?
Evening performances are Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinee performances are on Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm.
Will I cry at Les Misérables?
Many audience members are moved to tears by Les Misérables - the show's emotional power is legendary. The deaths of beloved characters and the soaring music create an intense experience. However, it is ultimately a story of hope, love, and the triumph of the human spirit, and audiences regularly give standing ovations.
In Sondheim Theatre
Venue address
51 Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 6BA
Seating plan
Access
WHEELCHAIR ACCESS:
Wheelchair spaces and transfers available.
Are there adapted toilets?
An adapted toilet is available in the foyer.
ASSISTED PERFORMANCES:Are there facilities for the hard-of-hearing?
There is an infrared system working throughout the auditorium. Sign interpreted and captioned performances available.
Are guide dogs and/or hearing dogs permitted?
Access dogs are allowed inside the auditorium. Staff dog-sitting available.
Please contact the theatre directly for further information.
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