Fort Defiance Players and the DC Players present ‘Les Misérables’

October 2, 2014

 

DEFIANCE, Ohio – Defiance College’s DC Players and the Fort Defiance Players blend a cast of college students, high school students, faculty, and community members to present “Les Misérables,” a musical based on the French historical novel by Victor Hugo. Performances will be Oct. 16-18 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 19 at 2 p.m. at the Defiance Community Auditorium, downtown Defiance, under the direction of Dr. Robert Barnett with musical direction by Andrew Schultz.

In 19th century France, Jean Valjean is released from 19 years of unjust imprisonment, but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment. He breaks his parole in hopes of starting a new life, initiating a life-long struggle for redemption as he is relentlessly pursued by police inspector Javert, who refuses to believe Valjean can change his ways. The story reaches a pinnacle during the Paris student uprising of 1832, and Javert must confront his ideals and Valjean continues to search for peace.

Starring are Defiance community members Mark Schnitkey as Valjean, Randy Schroeder as Javert, Kate Smolik as Fantine, and Mary Boyd as Madame Thenardier. Also starring are Hayley Hesselschwart, Bowling Green; Jordan Teeple, Hicksville; and Wyatt Short, Bryan.

DC students include Mandie Heil, Napoleon, as Eponine; Brian Coon, Bryan; Andrew Drewes, Napoleon; Amanda Fooce, Bellevue; Katrina Huffman, Edwardsburg; Lindsay Kasmer, Medina; Dustin Manson, Paulding; George Roth, Defiance; Steve Switz, New London; Kristian Woolace, Defiance; and DC staff member Ken Wetstein as Thenardier.

Reserved seats are $14, general admission is $12, and student prices are $10. Reservations are available by calling 419-782-PLAY(7529).

Defiance College, chartered in 1850, is an independent, liberal arts institution in Northwest Ohio offering more than 40 undergraduate programs of study as well as graduate programs in education and business. Defiance College has received national recognition for its educational experience of service and engagement. The college website is www.defiance.edu.