I came for a musical, but Les Misérables Manila hit me with so many feels, tears, and jaw-drops—I’m still recovering from this theatrical rollercoaster!

Show Date: Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM
Venue: The Theatre at Solaire, Manila
Ticket Price: PHP5,819

LES MISÉRABLES: WORLD TOUR SPECTACULAR is a breathtaking reinvention of the iconic musical, presented on a grand, awe-inspiring scale. This electrifying production brings Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed vision to life like never before in Manila. Building on the success of Les Misérables: The Staged Concert, this lavish performance immerses audiences in drama, music, and spectacle. The show runs approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission.

“Les Misérables” (or “Les Mis”) is Victor Hugo’s classic story of justice, redemption, and love in 19th-century Paris. It follows ex-convict Jean Valjean, who struggles to escape his past while being pursued by the relentless Inspector Javert. Along the way, he met Fantine, a desperate mother, and Cosette, Valjean’s adopted daughter. The story inspired the famous 1980 musical, with songs by Claude-Michel Schönberg and lyrics by Alain Boublil, bringing Hugo’s epic tale to life on stage.

I had been waiting for this moment for so long. Les Misérables, my brother’s favorite musical, was finally coming to Manila. I managed to secure a weekday ticket early since the weekend slots had sold out almost instantly, and I braced myself for an experience I knew would be unforgettable.

Then it began. The prologue. Goosebumps ran down my arms and my heart skipped a beat. The music washed over the audience, instantly pulling everyone into the world of Paris, of struggle, hope, and redemption. From the very first note, I knew this night would stay with me forever.

Seeing Filipino performers shine on stage made it even more special. Rachel Ann Go, Lea Salonga, Red and Emily, and young Cosette delivered performances that were nothing short of legendary. Their voices were powerful, their energy contagious, and I could not have been prouder. Even the international cast was phenomenal, bringing a depth and precision that made every scene unforgettable.

Some of my favorite moments were the iconic songs themselves. I Dreamed a Dream made my heart ache, On My Own filled the room with raw emotion, Master of the House brought laughter and energy, and Do You Hear the People Sing gave the stage a powerful roar. The Barricade scene with the red flag, Look Down, and the final ensemble of One Day More left me completely breathless. Each song felt like its own emotional journey, and together they created an unforgettable night.

This concert was more than just a show. It was a full sensory experience—the soaring voices, the emotional storytelling, the orchestra weaving magic in the background. Every moment left an impression. It has already earned a spot in my top five musical experiences, and I am counting down the days until I can see the full production. Nights like this remind you why live theater is irreplaceable.

If a musical can leave you speechless, this was it.

Things to Note

• Angkas motorcycles are not allowed, so taking a car is definitely the better option.
• Memorabilia starts at PHP500, mineral water costs PHP80, and food is above PHP150, but honestly, none of that matters once the music begins.
• Photography and videography are not allowed, which is actually perfect—you get to be fully present and soak in the experience.
• Food and bottled water are not allowed inside the theatre.
• Keep quiet and enjoy the music—let the performers shine.

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Before the Show

Before heading to Solaire for the 8pm show, I stopped by the dentist to have my braces adjusted. My last visit was back in May last year, so this year I promised myself to go every month. I am determined to finally finish this process and also had my oral prophylaxis done while I was there.

After that, I checked in at my hostel in Pasay, Maine City, for PHP600 a night, and grabbed a quick meal nearby at Lugawan sa Tejeros. There is nothing like a comforting bowl of lugaw to fuel the day.

The show was incredible, and after it ended, I went home to rest.

The Following Day

On January 28, I met a colleague at Krapow in Mall of Asia near IKEA. I had the Pad Krapow Neua Spicy Holy Basil Stir-Fry with Minced Beef (USDA) for PHP325, along with a Thai milk tea for PHP165, excluding taxes and service charge. The food was just okay and I probably would not go back to try other dishes. Thai cuisine is hard to find in the Philippines, and here it felt expensive for what it was.

Love,
Maria