Who Played Fantine in the Original London Cast?

By Anna Duncan

Fantine is a central character in the popular musical Les Misérables, which has won hearts all over the world. She is a beautiful, tragic heroine whose story highlights the social injustices of 19th-century France. Her character has been portrayed by several talented actresses over the years, but in this article, we will focus on the original London cast.

The Original Production of Les Misérables

Les Misérables first premiered in London’s West End back in 1985 and took the theater world by storm. The show’s creator, Claude-Michel Schönberg, and lyricist Alain Boublil adapted Victor Hugo’s novel into a musical that has since become one of the most successful productions of all time.

Who Played Fantine?

The role of Fantine was originated by actress Patti LuPone in the original London production. LuPone was already an established Broadway star at that time and had even won a Tony Award for her performance in Evita. She brought her exceptional talent to Les Misérables and created an unforgettable portrayal of Fantine.

Patti LuPone

LuPone’s incredible voice and acting skills made her an ideal choice for playing Fantine, a character who experiences immense suffering throughout the show. She imbued her performances with a raw emotional intensity that left audiences spellbound. Her rendition of “I Dreamed A Dream” remains one of the most iconic musical theater moments to this day.

Other Notable Performances

Since LuPone’s performance as Fantine, several other actresses have played the role with equal skill and passion. Some notable performers include Rebecca Caine, Lea Salonga, Anne Hathaway (in the film adaptation), and Ruthie Henshall.

The Importance of Fantine

Fantine’s character represents the struggles of the poor and oppressed in 19th-century France. Her story is a powerful commentary on social injustice and human suffering, and her portrayal has resonated with audiences for decades. The role of Fantine requires a performer who can convey both the character’s vulnerability and her strength, making it one of the most challenging roles in musical theater.

Conclusion

Patti LuPone’s performance as Fantine was a defining moment in musical theater history. The original London production of Les Misérables launched a phenomenon that has continued to captivate audiences around the world. The role of Fantine remains one of the most iconic roles in musical theater, and each actress who takes on the part brings something unique to their performance.