By Sharon L. Taylor
The credits for Jane Eyre at Toronto's Royal Alexandra
Theatre read like a "Who's Who" of Les Misérables history.
Les Mis director and adapter John Caird wrote the book and
additional lyrics and directed the new musical. Les Mis creative team members John Napier and Andreane Neofitou
were reunited to design, respectively, the scenery and costumes. Kevin McGuire (BroadwayClaquesous/Bishop)
served as assistant director.
Marla Schaffel (Broadway Swing) played the title role. "It's been a long time since I've fallen in love with an actress on the stage," wrote CBC Newsworld's David Gilmour of her performance, "but Marla Schaffel - fabulous - she broke my heart."
Anthony Crivello (Broadway Grantaire/Javert, London Tenth Anniversary Concert Grantaire) co-starred as the mysterious Edward Rochester. "Anthony Crivello...would make any woman's knees tremble," wrote Andrea Rooz in the EZ Rock. "He is the man dreams are made of; strong, passionate."
Stewart Brown with the Hamilton Spectator wrote, "Marla Schaffel and Anthony Crivello move mountains."
John Bemrose with Maclean's concurred: "The chemistry between Schaffel and Crivello could power a moon-rocket."
Other Les Mis alumni in the cast included: Elizabeth Beeler (Toronto swing, First Canadian Tour Cosette), Bruce Dow (Toronto/Canadian swing), Gina Ferrall (San Francisco, First/Third National/Broadway Madame Thénardier), Aloysius Gigl (Third National Enjolras), Angela Lockett (Broadway ensemble), Kevin McGuire (Broadway Claquesous/Bishop) and Kelli Rabke (Broadway Eponine).
Reprinted from "The Barricade" issue #18, with permission of editor Sharon L. Taylor. © 1997.
