Les Misérables

By: Aimee Adams

Les Misérables is a critically acclaimed film, known for it’s positive underlying messages. In the film, Jean Valjean, known as Prisoner 24601, is released from prison and breaks parole to create a new life for himself while escaping the grip of the persistent Inspector Javert. Set in post-revolutionary France, the story reaches resolution against the background of the June Rebellion.

Throughout the film, there was a true sense of Christianity. A prevailing message of forgiveness and compassion pulled at the viewer’s heartstrings and illustrated a perfect example of Christ’s forgiveness. The power of persistent faith and determination was evident during the main character’s trials, tribulations, and victories. Despite the little bit of vulgarity during the film, there were numerous Godly lessons to be taken from it. Les Misérables is a creative work that serves as a reminder that even in the worst of times, people are still fighting for the virtuous.   

The Miracle Worker- Impossible Competition

By: Aimee Adams

In today’s society, entertainment has to be dazing to capture attention, and only greatness has the ability to sustain it. Producing a play in a technology driven world is an extremely difficult playing field. The multitude of special features accessible to this generation sets extremely high standards for the entertainment business. With that being said, Avila’s production of, The Miracle Worker was good, but lacked the wow factor of today’s entertainment.

            The Miracle Worker is the well-known story about Annie Sullivan's (played by Kaitlin Gould) struggle to teach the blind and deaf Helen Keller (played by Camille Breckenridge) how to communicate. Breckenridge, did an exceptional job of playing Helen Keller. Gould also played her part well. Anne Breitenstein who played Kate (Helen’s mother,) did a superior job throughout the entire production. For the most part, the cast’s acting skills were not at question.

            The hard work of the cast and crew was evident; the fact that the show went on despite the multiple snow days was impressive. Sadly, it takes more than good acting and a heart-wrenching story to make a great production.  The Miracle Worker was good, but it had plenty of room left to grow.