Opening night for the American Fork High School’s production of “Les Miserables” will be Wednesday at 7 p.m.

The school’s drama director, Neal Johnson, said, “Broadway’s legendary musical has been specially adapted to meet the needs of young performers. The energetic young cast of over 55 comes from all areas of the student body: football players, basketball players, soccer players, choir, orchestra, band, drama, foreign language, journalism, drama. Auditions drew seasoned performers as well as first timers.”

Auditions were held months ago while Johnson and his department were in the midst of “Taming of the Shrew.” This is Johnson’s first undertaking of the timeless classic at American Fork High School and with a cast of nearly 60 members, and a live orchestra, everyone involved is anxious for opening night. As possibly one of the most popular and familiar Broadway musicals around, the show is sure to sell-out each night.

Playing the role of Jean Valjean is Kelton Davis, Marc Nielson will be playing the antagonist, Javert, while the leader of the revolution, Enjolras will be handled by Chris Weaver. Brooke Nielsen and Stephen Hill play the young lovers Cosette and Marius while Emilie Elmont enacts the role of Fantine and Rebecca Woahn portrays Eponine. The comedic characters of the Thenardiers will be played by Brandon Pack and Alina Rea.

Originally adapted from Victor Hugo’s timeless novel, “Les Miserables — School Edition” introduces a new generation to the grand and inspirational story that has touched the hearts of millions.

Johnson added, “A common theme, within ‘Les Miserables’ lies the universal truth ‘To love another person is to see the face of God’ and this message is sure to have a lasting impact on the cast, crew and audience alike.”

The story line and one of the most important themes deemed by Broadway critics that the musical examines is that of transformation, in the individual and in society. Jean Valjean, the chief protagonist, is transformed from a misanthropic and potentially violent ex-convict to a man capable of heroic love and self-sacrifice. The force that transforms him is love.

The Bishop of Digne offers Valjean unconditional love, trusting the former criminal with his life and giving him all that he can. Valjean finds inspiration for an entirely new life from this example. He learns to put another person first when he raises Cosette as his own daughter, and he endures moral trials, such as risking his life to rescue Marius, who loves Cosette.

Choral instruction has been under the direction of Tracy Warby while John Miller is conducting the live orchestra.

Tickets are available at the door at $7 for adults, $6 for students with an activity card or $35 for a family pass (two adults and four children, immediate family members only). Attendees are encouraged to arrive early.