Few musicals have defined generations and transcended languages quite like Les Misérables. As it celebrates its 40th anniversary at the Olivier Awards 2025, Victor Hugo’s epic tale of redemption, love, and revolution continues to move audiences worldwide — from London’s West End to Manila’s grand stages.

With powerhouse performances from seasoned Broadway and West End actors — including Lea Salonga and Rachelle Ann Go — the celebration marked not just a milestone for musical theater, but also for Filipino pride.

Here are ten unforgettable moments that have cemented Les Misérables as one of the greatest musicals of all time.

'Look Down' — The sound of the barricade rising

The opening sequence sets the tone — dark, relentless, and thunderous. “Look Down” captures the misery and resilience of the French poor, instantly immersing audiences into a world defined by injustice and survival.

The bishop’s mercy

Jean Valjean’s transformation begins here. After stealing silver from the Bishop of Digne, Valjean is forgiven instead of condemned. “I have bought your soul for God,” says the bishop — one of the most powerful lines in musical theater history.

'I Dreamed a Dream' — A cry of broken hope

Fantine’s lament, immortalized by Patti LuPone, Lea Salonga, and Anne Hathaway, remains one of the most haunting moments in theater. Her anguish embodies the tragedy of lost innocence and shattered dreams.

'Who Am I?' — The price of redemption

Valjean’s moral dilemma — to reveal his identity and save an innocent man — strikes at the heart of the human conscience. Every actor who has played Valjean delivers this moment as a test of courage and truth.

'On My Own' — Éponine’s quiet despair

When Lea Salonga became the first Asian actress to play Éponine on Broadway in 1993, she redefined the role with raw emotion. Her rendition of “On My Own” remains a global touchstone of unrequited love and silent strength.

'One Day More' — The anthem of revolution

The Act I finale unites every major character in a soaring, overlapping harmony of conviction. “One Day More” is not just a song — it’s an emotional crescendo that has brought audiences to their feet for four decades.

'A Little Fall of Rain' — Love at the barricade

Éponine’s death in Marius’ arms remains one of the most tender and heartbreaking moments in the musical. Even amid chaos, love finds its place — fragile, fleeting, yet eternal.

'Bring Him Home' — A prayer in the dark

Valjean’s prayer for Marius’ safety is a soul-stirring expression of faith and compassion. Its simplicity, purity, and quiet power continue to make it one of the most beloved solos in theater history.

'Empty Chairs at Empty Tables' — The cost of freedom

Marius’ grief over his fallen friends is a devastating reflection on revolution and loss. This moment reminds us that freedom often comes at the highest price.

'Do You Hear the People Sing?' — The song that never dies

The anthem of the people endures — sung in protests, graduations, and global movements. From 1985 to 2025, it remains the heartbeat of Les Misérables — a song for every generation that dares to dream of change.

A legacy that lives on

As Les Misérables celebrates 40 years, the Olivier Awards tribute served as both a curtain call and a continuation — honoring its creators, performers, and millions of fans who have found hope in its message.

For Filipino audiences, seeing Rachelle Ann Go once again share the stage with West End greats was a proud reminder that Filipino artistry knows no boundaries.

Because in the end, Les Misérables isn’t just a story about 19th-century France — it’s a story about all of us. About love that endures, justice that redeems, and the human spirit that refuses to break.

“To love another person is to see the face of God.”