NEEDHAM STUDENT HAS LEADING ROLE IN 'LES MISERABLES'

Madi Shaer, 10, plays Young Cosette, who sings the heartbreaking ballad “Castle on a Cloud.”

Performances of the epic musical will take place May 8, 9, 15, and 16 at 8 p.m., May 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m., and May 10 and 17 at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $18-25 and can be purchased at www.rtwboston.org or by calling 1-866-811-4111.

Based on the novel by Victor Hugo, Les Miserables is the story of Jean Valjean, sent to prison for stealing a loaf of bread for his family. He breaks parole and tries to make good of his life, but is hunted by the unrelenting Inspector Javert. A plot that spans decades is filled with acts of cunning and mercy, tales of sacrifice and unrequited love, all set to an indelible, Tony-Award-winning score.

Shaer, who attends Tenacre Country Day School in Wellesley, is making her Riverside debut in Les Miserables. She has previously appeared in Annie at Needham Community Theatre, The Sound of Music at the Footlight Club, and Oliver at Avon Community Theater.

Shaer plays Young Cosette on May 8, 10, 14, and 16, and plays Young Eponine in the other productions.

About Riverside Theatre Works

Riverside Theatre Works (RTW), the only live theater venue in Hyde Park, aims to bring quality, affordable theater to the community – and enrich lives with exposure to the arts.

Riverside offers private lessons and group classes in music, theater and dance, and produces plays and concerts for children, families, and adults. RTW alumni have gone on to appear on Broadway and national tours, and to use their theater training in all aspects of their lives. Find out more at www.rtwboston.org.

Riverside is located at 45 Fairmount Avenue in Logan Square, steps from the Fairmount commuter rail station.