World-famous musical Les Misérables comes to Shrewsbury

One of the world’s most iconic and powerful musicals is being brought to Shropshire by local theatre company Get Your Wigle On (GYWO).

In a significant coup for the local arts scene, Les Misérables: School Edition is set to grace the stage of Theatre Severn in 2027. Ahead of this landmark run, GYWO has issued a rallying cry to the county’s young talent, with auditions scheduled to take place in Shrewsbury.

A Masterpiece of Redemption and Revolution

Set against the volatile backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables follows the epic journey of Jean Valjean. After breaking parole, Valjean is pursued across decades by the uncompromising Inspector Javert. Their personal conflict plays out amidst a sweeping tale of revolution, sacrifice, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

This "School Edition" has been specially adapted to allow young performers to tackle the demanding vocal scores and emotional depth of the original production. For aspiring actors in the region, the opportunity to perform such a globally celebrated title on a major regional stage like Theatre Severn is being described by organisers as a "once-in-a-lifetime" prospect.

Calling Young Performers

GYWO, which has built a formidable reputation for producing high-quality youth theatre with West End ambitions, is looking for a diverse cast to bring the streets of Paris to life.

Target Groups: The company is particularly keen to hear from strong singers and male performers to fill a wide range of principal and ensemble roles.

Age Range: Auditions are primarily encouraged for teen performers aged 13 to 17.

Eligibility: To comply with licensing requirements, all cast members must be aged 18 or under and in full-time education on the date of the final performance.

How to Join the Revolution

The production team has emphasised that this is more than just a theatrical performance; it is a chance for Shrewsbury’s youth to showcase their talent in a world-class setting. With the musical having been seen by over 130 million people worldwide, the local production aims to bring that same scale and heart to Shropshire.

Prospective performers are encouraged to apply as soon as possible via the official website to secure an audition slot. As the famous lyrics suggest, the people are indeed singing—and this week, Shrewsbury will find out exactly who those voices will be.