The premiere performance of the new Meridian Little Theatre Stage 2 Teen Theatre Group is set to debut Aug. 13-15.

    This winner of eight Tony Awards is currently enjoying its 25th anniversary season and is only available as a production for students under the age of 19.

    This epic story recounts the struggle against adversity in 19th century France. Imprisoned for stealing a loaf of bread, Jean Valjean is released from his 19-year term and not only becomes an honest man, but the mayor of a prosperous town and a loving adoptive father — violating his parole in the process. The relentless Inspector Javert, who makes a decent life for Valjean impossible, consequently pursues him. Only years later, after Valjean proves his mettle during a bloody student uprising and saves the life of a young man hopelessly in love with Valjean’s adopted daughter, does the ex-convict finally feel fully redeemed.

    “Our teens decided they wanted to start with a big musical , and they chose the most difficult one out there!” says Youth Division Director Susie Johnson. “The kids want to show what they are capable of and are working extremely hard. I think Meridian is going to be amazed.”

    All 58 members of Stage 2 are involved with this performance, both onstage and backstage. They are assisting with set design and building, costumes, props, hair and make-up, lights, sound, publicity, and every aspect of production. 

    Members of Stage 2 include Rita Albert, Erin Beaudoin, Amanda Belcher, Katelyn Belcher, Lallie Elise Bennett, Shane Blanton, Adreana Bradley, Katie Bruister,Will Byram, Kim Cook, Chase Cooksey, Colton Cooksey, Nicole Covington, P.J. Crouch, Sean Datusch, Anna Drinkwater, James Gibson, Shelby Gibson, Alex Goldman, Tanner Goldman, Vashti Graham, McKenzie Griffin, Grant Guidry, Chadwick Harman, Damien Harman, Lauren Harman, Shameer Hashmat, Zain Hashmat, Josh Hertel, Kristen Hull, Benjamin Johnson, Jenna Johnson, K.K. Johnson, Christine Jones, Allison Justus, Brooke Knight,  Ashton Lamoreaux, Rosey Lau, Rachel Linder, Hayden Manning, Mary Frances Maranto, Drew Mueller, Jessica Pankhurst, Meg Patterson, Anna Blair Pettey, Jake Purvis, Karam Rahat, Bayleigh Roberts, Mackenzie Ross, Morgan Ross, Jesse Seale, Sarah Page Sikes, Jenna Smiley, Caleb Thaggard, Rachel Varela, Kevin Williams, and Madison Williams.