"Les Misérables" is a renowned novel by Victor Hugo that has also been adapted into a successful musical and numerous films. The song "At the End of the Day" is one of the memorable pieces from the musical adaptation. Here are some interesting facts related to "Les Misérables" and this song:
Historical Context: The story is set against the backdrop of the June Rebellion in Paris in 1832, although it primarily takes place in the years leading up to this event. This period was marked by political and social turmoil in France.
Publication Date: Victor Hugo's novel was first published in 1862 and was an instant success. It is considered one of the greatest novels of the 19th century.
Longest Running Musical: The musical adaptation of "Les Misérables" is one of the longest-running shows in the history of musical theater. It premiered in London in 1985 and has been performed continuously since then, breaking numerous records.
Eponine's Unrequited Love: The character Eponine, who features prominently in the song "On My Own," is in love with Marius but never has her love reciprocated. Her unrequited love is a central theme in the musical.
Iconic Revolving Stage: The original production of the musical featured a revolutionary set design, which included a massive rotating stage that allowed for seamless transitions between scenes. This innovation added to the visual impact of the show.
Cultural Impact: "Les Misérables" has had a profound cultural impact worldwide. It has been translated into numerous languages and adapted into countless productions, making it one of the most globally recognized works of literature.
Film Adaptations: In addition to stage productions, "Les Misérables" has been adapted into several film versions. The 2012 film adaptation, directed by Tom Hooper, starred Hugh Jackman as Jean Valjean and Anne Hathaway as Fantine, and received critical acclaim, winning several Academy Awards.
Themes of Redemption: One of the central themes of "Les Misérables" is the idea of redemption. Jean Valjean's journey from a hardened criminal to a compassionate and selfless man reflects this theme, as does the character arc of other key figures in the story.
Popular Songs: Besides "At the End of the Day," other popular songs from the musical include "I Dreamed a Dream," "Do You Hear the People Sing?," and "One Day More." These songs are known for their emotional depth and powerful performances.
International Success: "Les Misérables" has been performed in numerous countries and languages, demonstrating its universal appeal and enduring popularity around the world.
"At the End of the Day" serves as an opening number in the musical, introducing several key characters and setting the stage for the unfolding drama. It is known for its stirring chorus and powerful depiction of the harsh realities faced by the poor in 19th-century France.