Presented by Imagine Youth Theater, Les Misérables: School Edition comes to Owens Auditorium at Bradshaw Performing Arts Center, on the campus of Sandhills Community College, for two performances. Local audiences have a rare opportunity to experience one of musical theater’s most celebrated works performed by a cast of emerging, pre‑professional artists. The production runs August 1 and 2 and showcases young performers whose training, discipline, and artistic maturity position them on the threshold of collegiate conservatories and professional careers.
Set against the political unrest of 19th‑century France, Les Misérables follows the journey of Jean Valjean as he seeks redemption while being pursued by Inspector Javert. The musical’s sweeping narrative – interwoven with the stories of Cosette, Fantine, Éponine, and the young revolutionaries of Paris – has captivated audiences for decades with its themes of justice, sacrifice, and hope.
Director Kim Fielder‑Jones leads the creative team, with music direction by Nicole Sommers, choreography by Gary Taylor, and stage management by David Cox. Together, they have shaped a production that highlights both the emotional power of the musical and the exceptional talent of the performers bringing it to the stage.
For many cast members, the opportunity to perform this score is a milestone. “It’s very dense and beautiful music,” says Thomas Garrett, who portrays Marius. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to sing it.”
Amelia Kaczmarek, appearing as Cosette, describes the experience as uniquely meaningful. “The music is absolutely beautiful,” she says. “Opportunities to perform classic works like Les Misérables don’t come around very often, so it’s incredibly rewarding to bring this masterpiece to life.”
Will Cook, who plays Thénardier, believes audiences will be struck by the caliber of the production. “I think Les Misérables is something everyone should experience at least once,” he says. “Even if you’ve seen it before, this cast is incredibly talented.”
Executive Director Rita Taylor says the production reflects the heart of Imagine Youth Theater’s mission. “These young artists pour everything they have into their work,” Taylor says. “Their commitment, their passion, their courage… it’s extraordinary. When audiences see Les Misérables, they’re not just watching a youth production. They’re witnessing the next generation of performers stepping into their future.”
Principal Cast
The production features seven principal performers whose training and upcoming collegiate studies underscore the pre‑professional nature of the work:
Nik Epstein, Jean Valjean – Recent graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) High School; entering Northwestern University to study vocal performance.
Asa Bailey, Javert – Graduate of Pinecrest High School; attending Campbell College to study criminal justice and pre‑law.
Thomas Garrett, Marius – Graduate of UNCSA High School; continuing collegiate voice studies at UNCSA.
Kenna Johnson, Éponine – Graduate of Pinecrest High School; attending Appalachian State University to study forensic psychology.
Amelia Kaczmarek, Cosette – Rising senior at UNCSA High School studying drama.
Hadley Briggs, Fantine – Graduate of UNCSA High School; attending Point Park University to study musical theatre.
Taylor Newcomb, Madame Thénardier – Graduate of Pinecrest High School; entering Duke University to major in public policy.
Performance Information
Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026 – 7:30 PM; Sunday, August 2, 2026 – 2:00 PM Owens Auditorium, Bradshaw Performing Arts Center, Sandhills Community College
Tickets available at the door and at ticketmesandhills.com.
Featuring iconic songs such as “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” “Bring Him Home,” and “Do You Hear the People Sing?,” Imagine Youth Theater’s Les Misérables offers audiences a powerful evening of music and storytelling. With demand already high, early ticket purchase is encouraged.
Feature photo: Nik Epstein as Val Valjean and Hadley Briggs as Fantine. Photo credit: Gary Taylor Photography.
Written by Sandhills Sentinel contributor Christine Fowle.
