The curtain raiser of ‘Les Misérables’, a musical production by Nagaland Conservatory of Music (NCM), began at Lorin Hall, Tetso College here on Thursday. The three-day event, set to conclude on November 25, aims to bring the timeless tale of redemption to the Naga audience.
NCM chairman Lipokmar Tzudir highlighted the production’s journey, emphasising its roots in a careful case study, with an attempt at addressing poor understanding of artistry and limited resources.
The team dedicated nine months to rehearsals, with the youngest actor – six-year-old Tsungchilong Tzudir – contributing to the ensemble.
Spearheaded by NCM and supported by the Task Force for Music & Arts (TAFMA) and the North East Zonal Cultural Centre (NEZCC), the production showcased a collaboration of talents.
‘Les Misérables’, a sung-through musical based on Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel, unfolds with the tale of Jean Valjean seeking redemption in the early 19th-century France.
The musical was first premiered in Paris in 1980, later adapted into English by producer Cameron Mackintosh. This adaptation has been running in London since October 1985, making it the longest-running musical in the West End.
The Nagaland rendition adds a unique touch, aiming to resonate with local audiences while staying true to the timeless themes of justice and redemption.