The Heart of Valjean – Nick Cartell on Fatherhood, Loss, and 1,200 Nights of Les Mis
Nick Cartell steps into the spotlight, alone on stage. For the audience, it’s a performance. For Cartell, it’s personal. After more than 1,200 performances as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables, this role isn’t just a job — it’s a mirror. Every night, Cartell finds something new in the part: a glance, a note, a reaction. Each moment is a reminder that Valjean’s story is also his own.
It’s that kind of energy, authenticity, and vulnerability that audiences can look forward to when one of Broadway’s most iconic musicals, Les Misérables, comes to Louisville in October.
“If you haven’t seen the show yet, take the leap. Come and join us,” Cartell says. “You’ll come away thankful that you did, especially with everything happening in our world right now. An audience can come together, sit in one space and connect with these characters. There is a collective energy that comes with seeing theater.”
Grief, Growth, and Ghosts: Jesse Sharp on Bringing Depth to Charles Deetz in Beetlejuice’s Louisville Run
Get ready, Louisville! It’s time to say “Beetlejuice” three times and unleash a whirlwind of laughter, heart, and ghostly shenanigans at the Kentucky Center from May 14-19, 2024.
Bringing Clue to Life: The Journey from Board Game to Stage Mystery
Get ready to play detective, Louisville!
Clue, the board game that has enthralled players since 1949, jumps off the table and onto the stage, bringing a whirlwind of mystery and laughter to The Kentucky Center. From March 5 to 10, the roll of the dice comes to life, and Louisville will be smack in the middle of the action — minus the risk of becoming the next victim, of course!
The Kentucky Center opened in November of 1983 under the direction of Gov. John Y. Brown and a combined project budget from the state as well as local donors. Brown was quoted as saying there hasn’t been a more productive investment by the state than that of the arts center. He might be correct!
Over the years, The Kentucky Center has been the anchor for the arts and home to the major productions of Broadway in Louisville, the magical concerts of the Louisville Orchestra, the elegance of the Louisville Ballet and some of the biggest names in music, comedy, and entertainment. The Kentucky Center has hosted world leaders, presidential debates, and town halls on its stages. For 40 years, the flagship venue has proven to have been a great investment for the community, the city of Louisville and the entire commonwealth.
Looking back over the years, memories were made that will last a lifetime. We caught up with some friends of The Kentucky Center to find out what they love about the venue, as well as some of their favorite memories.
An Enchanting Journey: Louisville native Jack Brewer performs for hometown audiences in Disney’s Frozen
The Kentucky Center is buzzing with excitement as Louisville eagerly awaits the arrival of the Broadway sensation, Disney’s Frozen, on January 24. This production isn’t just another high-profile event for the city; it’s a homecoming for one of Louisville’s own, Jack Brewer.
Brewer has earned a spot in the ensemble of this acclaimed touring show, playing the charming Oaken. His journey from local theater to the grandeur of Broadway encapsulates a story of dedication, talent, and the support from a vibrant arts community.
