The Bristol Hippodrome was on to a winner when it opened its doors to the awe inspiring spectacle that is Les Misérables.

Everything about it was epic - the stage, the huge cast, the story and the music.

The star of the show was undoubtedly John Owen-Jones with his sensational, passionate and rousing portrayal of Jean Valjean. The performance was crisp and he was able to produce a few heart-wrenching moments such as when he rescued a little Cosette from a wicked Madame Thénardier, played vivaciously by Lynne Wilmot.

Madalena Alberto’s rendition of ‘I Dreamed A Dream’ as Fontine was spectacular. You could witness raw emotion flowing throughout her body. Her voice was not quite Susan Boyle, but she was still able to make hairs stand on end nevertheless.

The tragedy of this jaw dropping blockbuster is encapsulated by the shock death of the little boy, Gavroche and the emotional farewell by Rosalind James’ Éponine, both caught up in an explosive gun battle at the heart of the French Revolution.

An unlikely addition to the cast was Pop Idol heart-throb Gareth Gates. He fared better as Marius, although his performance felt quite shallow next to seasoned thespians such as Owen-Jones and Earl Carpenter (Inspector Javert).

Carpenter put in a breathtaking performance as he sang his way to his own death. The troubled man jumps from a bridge, plunging into water. Hooked to strings, he is raised from the ground flailing his arms and legs as if struggling in water. The back projected visuals are some of the finest use of technology I have ever seen in a touring musical like this.

As this show celebrates 25 years of international acclaim, it is clear to see that it will live on for many years to come.

Les Misérables runs until August 2 at Bristol Hippodrome.