Musical theatre star Samantha Barks to return to Les Miserables

Musical theatre star Samantha Barks has said it is “incredibly special” to return to perform in the long-running West End production of Les Miserables.

Barks will play the role of Fantine for eight performances from May 18 to 23, before joining the cast of the Les Miserables Arena World Tour at Birmingham Utilita Arena, London’s Royal Albert Hall and New York’s Radio City Music Hall.

Barks said returning to Les Miserables 16 years after first appearing in it “feels like a true full-circle moment”, while theatre producer Sir Cameron Mackintosh said he is “thrilled” to welcome her back.

She was first discovered by Sir Cameron in the BBC TV talent show I’d Do Anything, which searched for a performer to star as Nancy in his West End production of Oliver!.

The show also led to Sir Cameron discovering a then-unknown Jessie Buckley, as well as Rachel Tucker and Jodie Prenger.

Barks went on to play the role of Eponine in the West End and in the 25th anniversary concert of Les Miserables at London’s O2 Arena.

She also played Eponine in the Oscar-winning film adaptation of Les Miserables in 2012.

She has since taken leading roles in Pretty Woman on Broadway, Frozen in London, and most recently in the world premiere of The Greatest Showman in the West End.

Barks said: “Sixteen years ago, I first stepped into Eponine’s shoes, with so much still to learn.

“Now, I return with a deeper understanding of the story and its heart, to take on Fantine. I always wanted to return one day as Fantine, and it feels even more meaningful in this chapter of my life as a mother.

“This show has shaped so much of my journey, both on stage and on screen, and I’m incredibly grateful to revisit it with fresh perspective.

“London is where it all began for me, and to be back here telling this story again is incredibly special for me.”

Martha Kirby will continue to play Fantine from May 25.

Les Miserables is the longest-running musical in the West End, having been on stage since 1985.

It has won more than 270 awards around the world, including five Olivier Awards and eight Tony Awards.