Enjolras is a beloved character from the iconic musical Les Miserables. As the leader of the student revolutionaries, Enjolras is a charismatic and inspiring figure who fights for freedom and justice. The original London cast of Les Miserables brought this character to life in an unforgettable way, thanks in no small part to the talented actor who played him.
The Actor Who Played Enjolras
The original London cast of Les Miserables premiered in 1985 at the Barbican Centre, and it featured a stellar lineup of performers. Among them was Michael Maguire, the actor who played Enjolras. Maguire was born in Newport Beach, California, and he had already made a name for himself on Broadway before joining the cast of Les Miserables.
Maguire’s performance as Enjolras was nothing short of electrifying. He embodied all the passion and fire that make Enjolras such a compelling character, and his soaring voice brought new life to classic songs like “Do You Hear The People Sing?” and “Red and Black.”
Maguire’s Career Before Les Miserables
Before joining the cast of Les Miserables, Maguire had already established himself as a talented performer on Broadway. He made his debut in 1980 in the musical They’re Playing Our Song, which earned him a Theatre World Award for his performance.
Maguire went on to appear in several other Broadway productions, including Nine, Cats, and The Mystery of Edwin Drood. He also had success off-Broadway with productions like Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and Living In Paris.
Maguire’s Legacy
Maguire’s performance as Enjolras cemented his status as one of Broadway’s brightest stars. He received critical acclaim for his work in Les Miserables, including a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical. After leaving the show, Maguire continued to work in theater, film, and television.
Today, he is remembered as one of the most talented actors to ever take on the role of Enjolras. His portrayal of this iconic character helped bring Les Miserables to life for audiences around the world, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of performers.
Conclusion
The original London cast of Les Miserables was a groundbreaking production that featured some of the most talented performers of its time. Michael Maguire’s portrayal of Enjolras was a standout performance that helped make the show an instant classic. Thanks to his incredible talent and dedication, Maguire brought this beloved character to life in a way that will never be forgotten.