Knightly News

“Be prepared to laugh and cry. It’s a powerful production.”

That’s the advice Episcopal senior India Lathan has for Episcopal theater lovers. India portrays Cosette in the school’s presentation of “Les Misérables,” which opens Friday, April 1st. India and castmate Cooper Smither look forward to sharing the 2022 Episcopal version of the classic with audiences.

With nervous anticipation, the student actors reflect on preparing for their first musical performance. “It takes a lot of practice,” says Cooper of his role as Javert. Cooper says after watching the movie presentation of “Les Mis,” he immediately knew he wanted to play the prison guard turned police inspector. Self-described as cheerful and extroverted, Cooper was intrigued by the opportunity to step into the role of an intimidating and threatening character. India, who takes on the role of Cosette, says her favorite part of preparing for the musical is learning the music. She’s also learned a lot about herself and says as she learns the songs, she finds the confidence to perform them and knows that she can do it.

Photo provided by the Arts Krewe

As far as what audiences can expect from the production, India says to expect the unexpected. “Throw out everything you think we’re going to take from the movie,” she says with a smile. “We truly made these characters our own.” Audiences should expect the surprises to continue throughout, including in classic songs like “Master of the House.” “That is a song to look forward to,” says India.

The lights, set and dance performances will certainly not disappoint. Technical Theatre Director Louis Gagliano has spent hours developing 200+ light cues for the production. Dance teacher Christine Chrest’s choreography brings the story to life, and choir teacher Carrie Poynot helps vocalists hit the notes in popular songs like “On My Own,” “I Dreamed a Dream” and “One Day More.” The team effort includes support from band director Marshall Farrell and theatre teacher Joe Reynolds. The play is under the direction of Bailey Wax with assistance from Episcopal grad Ethan Wax ’19.

Photo provided by the Arts Krewe

Photo provided by the Arts Krewe

For many, Episcopal’s theater community is a family that extends to members of the alumni community. Cast members from Episcopal’s 2016 presentation of “Les Mis” will be on hand to celebrate opening night with current students. Current Director Ethan Wax portrayed Marius that year. Even the costumes have an alumni influence. Cooper points out that the outfit, boots and baton used to transform him into Javert were originally purchased by Eli Haymon ’17, who played the character in that same production. Haymon brought the costume back to Episcopal just for this year’s rendition, which is something Cooper truly appreciates.

“Les Miserables” takes over the Visual & Performing Arts Center starting Friday, April 1st. Tickets are on sale now.

April 1st and 2nd at 7 pm

April 3rd at 2 pm

April 5th – 7th at 7 pm

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2024-2025 application is now available! ​For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.