Summer Youth Conservatory of Musical Theatre West performing

August 22 — 24, 2003 outdoors at Recreation Park, Long Beach

August 14, 2003 The Summer Youth Conservatory of Musical Theatre West will present LES MISÈRABLES — SCHOOL EDITION which will play for 3 performances only on August 22-24, 2003 at 8pm outdoors at Recreation Park, Long

Beach. Tickets are available by calling Musical Theatre West Box Office at 562-856-1999 or two hours prior to each performance at the park.

The Summer Youth Conservatory of Musical Theatre West was founded in 1998 to provide opportunities for young performers to develop their skills in a professional environment. During the five week rehearsal period the basics of singing, acting and movement are taught to the cast. The conservatory is an integral part of the Youth Cultural Enrichment Program, which has introduced over 70,000 young people to the magic of live musical theatre. In the past years the conservatory has produced JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, GREASE and FOOTLOOSE.

Director Amick Byram, a LES MISÉRABLES veteran, has performed with Musical Theatre West in our critically praised production of MAME starring Carol Lawrence and Sally Struthers. Amick will be joined by Karen Nowicki choreographing and Patti Breitag handling the musical direction.

Broadway’s legendary musical has been specially adapted to meet the needs of young performers. The energetic young cast of over 40 comes from throughout Southern California and represents over 25 high schools. Playing the role of Jean Valjean is Alex Mohajer reprising his award winning role that he performed for University High School in Irvine. Dan Wozniak of Long Beach will be playing the protaganist, Javier while the leader of the revolution, Enjolras will be handled by Chris Fore of Irvine. Ahsley Eskew and David Marchesano both of Irvine play the young lovers Cosette and Marius while Kristen Rude of Fullerton enacts the role of Fantine and Katie Dixon of Huntington Beach portrays Eponine. The comedic characters of the Thenardiers will be played by Brian Pugach of Fullerton and Lauren Perry of Los Angeles.

Originally adapted from Victor Hugo’s timeless novel, LES MISÉRABLES — SCHOOL EDITION introduces a new generation to the grand and inspirational story that has touched the hearts of millions. For, within LES MISÉRABLES lies the universal truth "To love another person is to see the face of God" and this message is sure to have a lasting impact on the cast, crew and audience alike.

Musical Theatre West is one of the oldest regional musical theatre companies in Southern California and produces four major productions annually at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center. The 51^th Anniversary season will open with LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, November 1 — 16, 2003 and continue with HOT MIKADO, February 21 — March 7, 2004, ALWAYS…PATSY CLINE, April 24 — May 9, 2004 and closing with KISS ME, KATE, July 10 — 25, 2004. Tickets for the season are also available by calling the Box Office at 562-856-1999.