Les Miserables
New Orleans

The Story Behind Les Miserables

Les Miserables is more than just a musical -- it is a cultural phenomenon that has defined what epic theater can be. First adapted from Victor Hugo monumental 1862 novel by composer Claude-Michel Schonberg and lyricist Alain Boubil, the show premiered at the Barbican Centre in London on October 8, 1985. Critics were initially mixed, but audiences were immediately captivated. The London production went on to become the longest-running musical in the West End, a record it held for decades.

The story follows Jean Valjean, a man sentenced to 19 years of hard labor for stealing a loaf of bread. After his release, he breaks parole and reinvents himself as a factory owner and mayor, only to be hunted by the relentless Inspector Javert. Along the way, the narrative weaves together stories of love, sacrifice, and revolution -- from Fantine tragic fall to the idealism of the student revolutionaries at the barricades of 1832 Paris. It is a story about justice, redemption, and the enduring power of compassion in the face of cruelty.

The musical opened on Broadway in 1987 at the Broadway Theatre and ran for 6,680 performances, making it one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history. A 2014 Broadway revival brought a reimagined staging to a new generation of fans. The 2012 film adaptation starring Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, and Russell Crowe earned over $440 million worldwide and won three Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Hathaway unforgettable performance of I Dreamed a Dream.

The score remains one of the most recognizable in all of musical theater. Songs like One Day More, I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own, Castle on a Cloud, Stars, and Do You Hear the People Sing? have become part of the cultural fabric. Whether performed by a touring company, a community theater, or a Hollywood cast, the music retains its extraordinary emotional power.

About the Jefferson Performing Arts Center

The Jefferson Performing Arts Center (JPAC) is a premier cultural venue located at 6400 Airline Drive in Metairie, Louisiana, just a short drive from downtown New Orleans. Opened in 2015, the facility features a beautifully designed 1,000-seat main theater with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems. The venue is operated by the Jefferson Performing Arts Society (JPAS), which has been producing professional-quality theater in the greater New Orleans area for nearly 50 years.

JPAC offers ample free parking and is conveniently accessible from Interstate 10. The intimate theater design ensures that even back-row seats feel close to the action, making it an ideal setting for the emotional intensity of Les Miserables. The 2026-2027 season marks Season 49 for JPAS, continuing their tradition of bringing world-class productions to the New Orleans metro area.

If you are looking for tickets, the best selection of verified resale seats is available on BigStub. With over 20 years connecting fans with live events and a 100% buyer guarantee on every order, you can purchase with confidence. Check the listings above to find seats at every price level for Les Miserables at JPAC.

How to Buy Les Miserables New Orleans Tickets

Where can I buy Les Miserables tickets for the Jefferson Performing Arts Center?

Tickets are available through the Jefferson Performing Arts Society box office and authorized primary sellers. You can also find verified resale tickets on BigStub, a trusted third-party marketplace with no hidden fees and a buyer guarantee on every order.

What is the performance schedule for Les Miserables in Metairie?

Les Miserables runs for six performances at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center. Evening shows are scheduled for February 26, 27, March 5, and 6 at 7:30 PM. Matinee performances are on February 28 and March 7 at 2:00 PM. This is a limited engagement, so securing tickets early is recommended.

What should I know about the Jefferson Performing Arts Center before attending?

The Jefferson Performing Arts Center is located at 6400 Airline Drive in Metairie, just minutes from downtown New Orleans via I-10. The venue features a 1,000-seat theater with excellent acoustics and sightlines from every section. Free parking is available on-site. Doors typically open 30 minutes before showtime, and concessions are available in the lobby.

Are resale tickets for Les Miserables legitimate?

Yes -- when purchased through a verified marketplace like BigStub, resale tickets are fully guaranteed. BigStub has been in the ticket business for over 20 years and holds the highest Trustpilot rating in the industry. Every purchase comes with a dedicated customer service team and a full buyer guarantee, so you can buy with confidence.

What if I cannot attend -- can I resell my Les Miserables tickets?

If your plans change, resale options are available through various ticket marketplaces. Check the terms and conditions of your original purchase, as some tickets may have restrictions on transfer or resale. BigStub and other verified platforms make it easy to list tickets for events you can no longer attend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Les Miserables about?

Les Miserables tells the story of Jean Valjean, a former prisoner seeking redemption in 19th-century France, pursued by the relentless Inspector Javert. The musical weaves together themes of love, sacrifice, justice, and revolution against the backdrop of the 1832 Paris uprising.

When is Les Miserables playing at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center?

Les Miserables runs for six performances from February 26 through March 7, 2027. Evening shows are on February 26, 27, March 5, and 6 at 7:30 PM. Matinee shows are on February 28 and March 7 at 2:00 PM.

Where is the Jefferson Performing Arts Center located?

The Jefferson Performing Arts Center is located at 6400 Airline Drive in Metairie, Louisiana, just minutes from downtown New Orleans. The venue is easily accessible from Interstate 10 and offers free on-site parking.

How long is a Les Miserables performance?

A typical Les Miserables performance runs approximately two hours and 50 minutes, including one intermission. Run times may vary slightly depending on the production.

Is Les Miserables appropriate for children?

Les Miserables deals with mature themes including poverty, injustice, and revolution. Most productions recommend the show for ages 10 and up. Parents should use their discretion based on their child sensitivity to dramatic themes and intense emotional scenes.

What are the most famous songs from Les Miserables?

Some of the most beloved songs from Les Miserables include I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own, One Day More, Castle on a Cloud, Stars, Do You Hear the People Sing?, and Bring Him Home. The score is widely considered one of the greatest in musical theater history.

How much do Les Miserables tickets cost in New Orleans?

Ticket prices vary based on seating section, date, and demand. Check the listings above for current pricing on all available performances at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center.

Can I get group tickets for Les Miserables at JPAC?

Group ticket options are typically available through the Jefferson Performing Arts Society box office. Contact JPAS directly for information on group rates and availability for Les Miserables performances.

Is there parking at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center?

Yes, the Jefferson Performing Arts Center offers free on-site parking for all events. The parking lot is conveniently located adjacent to the venue, making it easy to arrive and depart.

What is the Jefferson Performing Arts Society?

The Jefferson Performing Arts Society (JPAS) is a nonprofit organization that has been producing professional-quality theater in the greater New Orleans area for nearly 50 years. Their 2026-2027 season marks Season 49, continuing their tradition of bringing world-class productions to the community.

Where can I find verified Les Miserables tickets online?

Verified Les Miserables tickets are available through the JPAS box office and on BigStub, a trusted resale marketplace with over 20 years of experience, no hidden fees, and a buyer guarantee on every order. Browse the listings above to find seats at every price level.

Will Les Miserables return to New Orleans after this run?

This production is a limited six-show engagement at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center. Future performances depend on scheduling and demand. Check back for updates on additional dates or future JPAS seasons.