The arts are alive and more than well and thriving in Spokane. Recently, Spokane Civic Theatre and the Spokane Symphony collaborated for the first time to present “Les Miserables” at the Fox Theatre. It was a huge stretch and risk for both organizations but, in the end, if you were fortunate enough to see either performance Saturday or Sunday, you know it was nothing less than magical.

I was in the audience for both shows, and by the reactions around me, to say it exceeded expectations is an understatement. I have seen shows on Broadway, and in London, and have never witnessed anything like what I saw this weekend in heart and beauty. “Les Mis” reached a new standard with Civic’s volunteer cast from last fall’s sold-out shows at the Civic, the professional 33-piece Spokane Symphony and the gorgeous Fox Theatre.

Thanks to all who made this fundraising event happen and who supported this unique venture. If you missed it, you missed out on something truly special. But, hopefully, there will be more joint ventures between arts organizations in the future.

Susanna Baylon

Spokane