FYT’s Les Miserables is a visually stunning, briskly confident production. It is a complex story that encompasses, poverty, crime, punishment, death, rebellion and redemption.

Under the able direction of David Tatnall, the cast handled this heavy weight material with great savvy and maturity. Ben Lyons, only 16, made a credible Jean Valjean, bringing considerable gravitas to this demanding role.

He was matched by Chris Morgan who gave a subtle and compelling performance as his adversary Javert. Among the excellent cast, were Emma Bailey for her truly moving performance as Fantine and James Bailey and Eve Lethbridge as the deliciously wicked but rather amusing Monsieur and Madame Thernardier. Clever set designs, good costumes and use of lighting perfectly illustrated the high production values. Never has poverty looked so good.

Karen Robson Les Miserables (School Edition) Footlights Youth Theatre Theatre Royal, Winchester