By Miss Elsom (Drama Theatre and Events Technician)

After five sold-out nights at The Quarry Theatre, the joint production of Les Misérables by Bedford Girls’ School and Bedford School was a resounding success, leaving audiences full of praise for the extraordinary show.

With the final curtain drawn on Saturday evening, the cast reflected on their journey, which involved rehearsals three nights a week for three months, supplemented by several Sunday sessions. This monumental project left a lasting impact, as shared by members of the cast:

Elio Lepore, Lower Sixth at Bedford School, remarked: “I really enjoyed the process and feel very lucky to work with such an amazing and talented cast.”

Imogen Blower, Year 11 at Bedford Girls’ School, shared: “Les Misérables has truly been the highlight of 2024 for me. The cast and crew have made such an incredible impact on me and will forever be remembered in my heart. It was such a special show, particularly because of the friendships made along the journey. What we produced as students has truly shattered my stereotypes of school productions and has been my favourite project by far. I’m so proud of what we achieved.”

Archie Fleming, Year 9 at Bedford School, said: “Les Misérables has been a busy but beautiful experience I’ll never forget.”

Matt Hackney, Year 11 at Bedford School, reflected: “Out of all the shows I’ve done, this one will easily be the most memorable. Not because of the final performance, but because of the brilliant people I got to know and work with on such an awesome project.”

Olivia Deverill, Year 9 at Bedford Girls’ School, enthused: “I thought Les Misérables was an awesome experience and one of the best school musicals I will ever do! I felt like I was in the West End. We put together an amazing show, and I am extremely happy I decided to participate in it. I wish we didn’t have to part ways because it was truly a fantastic experience. I hope to do something like this again in the near future!”

Lucian Davies, Lower Sixth at Bedford School, added: “Having taken part in Les Misérables as my first school musical at Bedford, it is fair to say it will be one of the most memorable experiences I have had at school. The professionalism shown by all involved was truly inspiring, and it was a magical show to be a part of. The most exciting aspect for me was seeing all the individual scenes and acts come together over time. Going from nothing to a full performance carried an air of anticipation and was incredibly rewarding with each successful show!”

Les Misérables was an unforgettable experience for our students. Collaborating with peers from Bedford School brought a dynamic energy to the production; it was a true testament to what can be achieved when schools join forces in the arts. Congratulations to everyone involved in the triumph that was Les Misérables by Bedford Girls’ School and Bedford School!

View photos from the production here.