A pair of beggars played by Sage Larson, left, and Olivia Zapater-Charrette, sing at the front of the stage during act one of OPRF’s production of “Les Miserables.” David Pierni/Staff Photographer Buy photo
Dominick Alesia, who plays a constable and a pimp gets help with his makeup. David Pierini/Staff Photographer Buy photo
David Pierini/Staff Photographer Buy photo
Director Michelle Bayer, center, leads her cast through a set of pre-rehearsal instructions and warm-ups. John Clay III, who plays Jean Valjean, (far right) talks with the orchestra’s conductor during rehearsal. David Pierini/Staff Photographer Buy photo
David Pierini/Staff Photographer Buy photo
David Pierini/Staff Photographer Buy photo
David Pierini/Staff Photographer Buy photo
David Pierini/Staff Photographer Buy photo
David Pierini/Staff Photographer Buy photo
Fantine, played by Tali Rabinowitz (above), is arrested after striking a man who harassed her. David Pierini/Staff Photographer Buy photo
It took a cast of 108, a crew of 30 and a 30-piece orchestra for Oak Park and River Forest High School to present the musical Les Miserables.
Michelle Bayer directs the musical she has always wanted to stage. Besides the necessary volume of students, Bayer is blessed with a group of talented singers and a crew and orchestra capable of pulling off the grand and complicated production.
The story, based on a Victor Hugo novel in 19th-century France, focuses on the journey to redemption of ex-convict Jean Valjean, played by senior John Clay III. It is his final performance at OPRF.
Two performances were held Feb. 23 and 24 at the school’s auditorium, but two shows remain, March 1 and 2.