Based on Victor Hugo's 1862 novel of the same name, set in early 19th-century France, the plot follows the stories of many characters as they struggle for redemption and revolution. An ensemble that includes prostitutes, student revolutionaries, factory workers, and others join the lead characters.

This current English language version of "Les Miseables" had its World Premiere at the Barbican Center in London on October 8th, 1985 under the auspices of the Royal Shakespeare Company.