FREE Players Proudly Present "Les Miserables" At Bayway Arts Center in East Islip

Opening nights are classically the most exciting of all nights for a show. All of the hard work, rehearsals, set design, musical direction, costuming and dialogue that have gone into a production culminate into something glorious, something wonderful, for cast, crew, and patrons alike.

Last night’s performance of “Les Mis” by the FREE Players was no exception. However, this is no ordinary theater group, just as “Les Miserables” is no ordinary musical. The score is difficult to memorize, as every single line of the show must be sung. The set design is incredibly detailed. And there are incredible costume changes, which makes this production even more astounding.

You see, FREE Players, based out of Old Bethpage, is a theater group comprised of differently-abled adults. Under the tutelage of directors Tara Palen and Shane Fallacara (who is also the musical director), as well as assistant directors Evan Donnellan and Brian Lunn, this cast has performed extraordinarily well. All of the hours that were invested in the production certainly paid off, as the performance was thoroughly enjoyable.

Each and every member of this cast performed with heart and passion. Acted superbly, with voices strong and sure, the members of this troupe brought the story of Jean ValJean, Fantine, Eponine, Marius, Cosette and the rest to life with conviction that was admirable.

Performed this year at the Broadhollow Theater Company’s Bayway Arts Center in East Islip, FREE Players, which function under the backing of Family Residences and Essential Enterprices, Inc., brought about a professional show that opened to a packed house. Set changes were smooth by the “backstage ninjas”, under the direction of stage manager Tricia Ieronimo. Executive producer Jessica Gallone was on hand with raffles, and one could palpate the pride that she took in this extraordinary band of actors, musicians and crew. Costumes were designed by Palen and Ieronimo, and makeup supervision was performed by Ava Anise Adams.

While every cast member performed with fantastic flare, I would be remiss if I did not mention several cast members whose singing style was outstanding. Please understand that I felt that every single cast member was phenomenal in their own right. It is of the utmost importance, however, to make mention of a few who stood out in my mind.

Justin Tsao as Jean Valjean was a delight to behold. His performance of “Bring Him Home” brought down the house. Frank Conti’s Marius was convincing and even. Mariel Costanza’s Fantine had strength and courage in her voice. John Stoehr, who played Javert, gave a credible portrayal of the frustrated lawman who wishes to lock Valjean away forever for a crime committed long ago. Eponine, played with strong emotion by Jody Flom, was believable and enjoyable. The other main characters portrayed their roles with realism and emotion that earned them the standing ovation that they received at the end of the performance. Each and every member of the production was fantastic. I could not think of a better way for me to spend my Friday night than with the FREE Players!

All in all, “Les Miserables” by FREE Players was one of the finest productions that I have seen by this wonderful theater group. Tonight’s performance at 7 pm should not be missed. But if you aren’t fortunate enough to make tonight’s performance, you can catch this remarkable group on Sunday, June 16th at 2 pm at the Bayway Arts Center at 265 Main Street in East Islip. I promise you that this will be a performance that you will not soon forget!

For more information about FREE Players, please visit their website at www.familyres.org.