As North Rockland Drama students prepare for “Les Miserables,” Hugh Jackman and Stephanie Courtney cheer them on

Coming this weekend, The North Rockland High School’s Drama Society will present the musical “Les Misérables, School Edition.”

North Rockland Drama Society is known for a run of many popular plays in recent years, such as “Candide,” “West Side Story,” “Cats” (Nominated for 12 awards and proud recipient of 2 Metropolitan High School Theater Awards), “Aida,” and “Beauty and The Beast,” along with last fall’s comedy, “The Canterbury Tales.”

“Les Mis” takes place in 19th century France, relaying the story of protagonist Jean Valjean, who is released from years of unjust imprisonment, but in freedom finds only more mistrust and mistreatment. He breaks his parole in hopes of starting a new life, initiating a lifelong struggle for redemption as he is relentlessly pursued by Inspector Javert, who refuses to believe Valjean can change his ways.

Finally, during the Paris student uprising of 1832, Javert must confront his ideals after Valjean spares his life and saves that of the student revolutionary who has captured the heart of Valjean’s adopted daughter.

The production of “Les Misérables, School Edition” will take place at North Rockland High School, located at 106 Hammond Road, Thiells New York, March 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18. All shows will begin at 7:30 p.m. and will run for approximately two and a half hours. Ticket prices will run at $12 for students and senior citizens, and $15 for adults. March 16 will be 2-for-1 student ticket night. Tickets can be purchased at the door or reserved by calling 845-942-3300 x4954 or by visiting our Eventbrite page. Tickets must be paid for by cash or check. Checks payable to NRHS Drama Society.

The show is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI) in New York City. 

Recently the NR Drama Society received a very pleasant surprise when Hugh Jackman, star of the Hollywood adaptation of “Les Miserable” sent them a video shout out that’s drummed up ticket sales. The good news got even better when local NRHS Drama Alum Stephanie Courtney, the actress behind Flo, the Progressive Insurance spokesperson, donated $2,500 dollars to the Society’s GOFUND page.

Most of the students performing in this years musical were taught by the same teacher that taught Flo, Mr. Roth now the principal at Willow Grove Elementary school.