Rye High School Students Bring ‘Les Misérables’ to Life in Spring Musical
Rye High School students recently delivered a spectacular production of “Les Misérables” as their spring musical. Under the leadership of theater director Thomas Snowden, more than 70 students in the cast and crew worked collaboratively to bring the beloved musical to life.
“Les Misérables” tells the story of Jean Valjean, a former prisoner who seeks redemption after years of hardship and injustice. As he tries to build a new life, he is relentlessly pursued by the strict police inspector Javert while also caring for the orphaned Cosette. Set in 19th-century France, the story explores justice, compassion, sacrifice and the struggle for dignity in a society marked by poverty and revolution.
Snowden shared that his students advocated to stage the production after he had initially planned a different musical. Ultimately, he said, it proved to be the perfect year to bring the show to the Rye High School stage.
“They rallied together in their performance and forged bonds that I believe will last a lifetime,” he said. “What stood out most to me was how so many people rallied behind this production – the cast, crew, administrators, parents and community members. It is a very big undertaking, and it could not have been successful without everyone doing their part.”
At the conclusion of the show, the students also recognized 21 seniors among the cast and crew, who took their final bow on stage to a cheering audience.
In addition to the direction by Snowden, the production – the first one in the newly renovated Performing Arts Center – was made possible thanks to the work of choreographer Cathy Cunningham, music director Todd Beaney and lighting and set designer Jeff Loddo. Special thanks to Greycat Productions for the photographs.