Lincoln luminary shines in 'Les Mis'

[June 19, 2012]  Lincoln resident Stéphanie Myre has been cast as Éponine in Eastlight Theatre's production of "Les Misérables," which opens Friday. This Tony Award-winning musical has captured the hearts of theatergoers around the world since it premiered in 1985 and remains one of the longest-running shows ever produced on Broadway.

"I first saw 'Les Misérables' when I was 12 years old, and it inspired me to pursue a career in the arts," reflects Myre. "Playing the role of Éponine has always been on my 'bucket list,' so this is a dream come true for me."

Eastlight's production has the distinction of being the regional premiere of this epic musical and is one of the first in the nation to feature a new set of orchestrations. The auditions attracted performers from all over central Illinois, and some cast members travel up to 70 miles one-way to attend rehearsals.

"The cast is phenomenal," says Myre. "We all consider it an honor to be a part of this production."

Although this is Myre's first appearance at Eastlight Theatre, she is no stranger to the stage. Prior to moving to Lincoln, she spent over 14 years performing, teaching, directing and producing in Chicago and the Midwest. Performances of note include "Zuit Suit" at Chicago's Goodman Theatre, the title role in the world premiere of "Madame X" at the Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, the narrator in "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" and many others.

When she is not performing, Myre teaches private voice and piano lessons in Lincoln. (Visit www.BalancingActStudio.com to learn more about her performing arts studio.)

Stéphanie and her husband, Kenneth Kendall, moved to Lincoln in 2010. He heads the theater program at Lincoln College and is spending the summer performing in the Michigan Shakespeare Festival. In addition to music and theater, they also share a passion for rescuing and training dogs, and volunteer with the Humane Society of Logan County.

The regional premiere of "Les Misérables" at Eastlight Theatre is directed by Robin Hunt, with the music directed by Mitch Colgan, and will feature spectacular sets and lighting designed by technical director Steve Cordle.

The show will be performed June 22, 23, 27, 28, 29 and 30 at 7:30 p.m. and at 2 p.m. June 24. Tickets are $19 and can be purchased at www.eastlighttheatre.com.

[Text from file received]