Opening Night at Les Misérables: When Masterful Storytelling and High Art Become One
Photo: Jordan Somers
By Ashleigh McCurdy / @Life_DesignedByAshleigh
There are productions you attend, and then there are productions that stay with you. Last night, I experienced the opening night of Les Misérables at the historic Paramount Theatre in Seattle, and what unfolded was nothing short of breathtaking. This was a moment that reminded me why the arts matter—a few hours that will stay for a while.
From the moment I arrived (a full hour early), it was clear the city already knew what was about to take place. The line wrapped around the corner, the energy was elevated, and the anticipation was palpable. By curtain call, every seat was filled. It was a sold-out house, with a captivated audience eager to share an experience with each other.
A Production That Moves You
I attended with my friend Justin, who had been telling me for quite some time that Les Misérables is one of the greatest musicals ever staged. And he wasn’t wrong.
What I experienced was a masterclass in storytelling. The production itself was visually stunning., layered, immersive, and executed with precision. The set design transforms seamlessly from scene to scene, pulling the audience deeper into 19th-century France with every act.
And the vocals? Absolutely extraordinary. Each performance was delivered with such emotional depth and technical excellence that you could feel the audience collectively holding its breath. It’s rare to witness a cast so aligned in purpose, presence, and power.
Photo: Jordan Somers
A Cultural Experience Packaged as a Musical
Presented by STG Presents in partnership with Broadway Seattle and Broadway Across America, this production reminded me why theater continues to matter in our current climate. Les Mis is storytelling at its highest level, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, justice, and redemption in a way that feels just as relevant today as when it was first written.
Perhaps that’s what makes it so powerful: it doesn’t just entertain you, but changes you, even if just a little.
Photos: Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman
My Personal Takeaways
I walked into the theater expecting a great show. I walked out as a lifelong fan of the story and the emotional weight that came with hit.
There is something deeply moving about witnessing art at this level, where every detail, every note, every moment is intentional. It reminded me why I continue to seek out experiences like this, and why I’m committed to sharing them through The Sanctuary.
This is what it means to live well, to feel deeply, and to be fully present in the beauty of culture.
Photo: Jordan Somers
Don’t Miss This!
If Les Misérables is in your city, GO!!!
If you have the opportunity, TAKE IT!!!
If you’ve been thinking about it, this is your sign.
Trust me… You don’t want to miss this one.
Until the next time. With Love Always,
— Ashleigh, The Sanctuary
Les Miserables is at the Paramount Theatre through Sunday, April 19th. Get your tickets here while you can; if opening night was any indication, seats won’t last long.
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