oh man, you have no idea what a huge Les Miserables fan I am. I've been enamored with it since I was introduced to it about 10 years ago. Finally got to see it on tour 5 years ago. My romanticized dream of a trip to New York always included ice skating and seeing Les Mis. Then they took it off Broadway and I was so dissapointed. I never thought they'd bring it back so soon. I'm going to have to scrimp and save but I finally get to make my dream come true (probably going in Feb. or March. My dad is going to order my Les Mis tickets as a birthday present (which is in December) and of course I'm paying for everything else. Which wouldn't be so bad except I already paid for my 2nd tour group trip to New York (which is in 2 weeks!)
Sorry for all the backstory. As you can see, I've been emotionally invested in the prospect of this revival for a while now. As for the announced cast, I'm excited to see Jenny as Mme. Thenadier. Like so many people on the main board have said: my jaw dropped when I saw Daphne's name. It wasn't a negative reaction, just truly unexpected. That thought never crossed my mind as a possible casting choice. I think she'll definately bring a different side to Fantine. I'm not particularly a fan of her voice, just not my style is all. So I'm having a hard time imagining her singing "I Dreamed a Dream" (my second favorite song) but I'm sure she can pull it off and make it her own. I think it will definately be a role that stands out in this cast rather than being bland and drifting into the backround.
oh wow, this post is long enough... please forgive! just wanted to share my thoughts on the subject since it's one I'm so passionate about.