When it comes to Eponine, there are 3 performers that I like. Frances Ruffelle, Lea Salonga and Samantha Barks. All 3 portrayed the character differently, but they portrayed them well. When Frances sings, I pity Eponine, When Samantha sings, I want to comfort Eponine. And when Lea sings I want Marius to choose Eponine over Cosette. I chill whenever I hear her voice. All 3 of them appeal to my emotion. They make me imagine things. I can put myself on Eponine's shoes when I watch them perform.
wait what the fuck. shes an AMAZING singer. in fact i dont really get what you douchebags are talking about. the first 2 minutes where the sound quality is bad? fucking plese. isnt she the first original REAL eponine. and she can hit the high notes PERFECTLY. really shut the fuck up -.-.
Eponine is my favorite character in the musical "Les Miserables and I can't imagine Taylor Swift singing "On My Own". I like her songs "A Place in this World" and "The Best Day". But if she could only sing like Frances Ruffelle or Lea Salonga, she would be fitted for the role. But she is not. Samantha Barks is the one who can play it well. I think Taylor would just make a fool of herself is she play Eponine. I'm a fan of Taylor Swift, but I'm also a Les Mis fanatic.
I can understand why many people might not like her. But i think people should understand, everyone of them, Lea, Samantha, Frances etc all portrayed a different Eponine each with their own unique characteristics. I first listened to Lea and Samantha's version and ive recently discovered Frances and i really think her portrayal of Eponine is very different and i love it!
Personally, I don't like her. There's no power in her vocals to represent the powerful character she's potraying - especially with those high notes. She can't reach them without having to strain. Musical theatre isn't just about the singing, I know, it's about the acting too which she does fine but as this is musical theatre, you're suppose to be able to take on both skills which France Ruffelle struggles with. To me, she slurs every note she sings and I don't like that.
It isn't. It's what I'd call highly individualistic singing. Humor me just this once, have an open mind and listen to some of the world's highly accomplished singers/artists such as Edith Piaf, Ethel Merman, Carol Channing, Leonard Cohen, Angela Lansbury, Joni Mitchell, Kate Bush, Bernadette Peters, David Bowie, Jeff Buckley, Grace Jones, Tori Amos, Bjork, Freddie Mercury, & Nina Hagen. Frances has one thing with them in common: they all have very distinctive voices.
I like her - she's charming and emotive. She can't sing, however, and since this is a musical, she's totally wrong for this role. I'm sure she'll be excellent in non-musical stage performances since she seems to be a really good actor.
You seem to forget that musical theatre is NOT only about singing. Some of the most memorable songs in musical theatre are written for people who can't sing well. Sally Bowles (Cabaret) and Desiree Armfeldt (A Little Night Music) to name two. Why do you think they hired Dame Judi Dench to play both of the characters I mentioned? Because she can't sing? Hardly. It's because she can ACT THE HELL out of those characters. Frances acted the hell out of Eponine too, just saying. ;)
And yet they hired her to reprise the role on Broadway, just saying. ;)
But I do agree with you on one point. Yeah, there are loads of better singers than Frances out there and a helluva lot of better actors as well. However, Frances has a certain 'je ne sais quoi' in her portrayal of Eponine which a lot of people hasn't. There are a lot of actors on Broadway who are uber-talented with matching killer pipes but they just don't have that quality. "You either got it or you ain't"... lol
Btw, just out of curiosity, have you ever been cast in LesMis (as Eponine or Cosette)? I asked because you mentioned having some Broadway experience. If yes then I'm very happy for you. If you made it to Broadway then you must be really good (and no, that's not sarcasm lol).
Frances Ruffelle, is first and forever, Eponine. She brings a venerability that is lacking with a many of the newer actresses. They rush through it and sing it by rote. She will always be the best!
Taylor swift doesn't have the power CHasten Harmon does, although it is likely she or Lea will be the ones Taylor looks to. If she attempts a belty on my own, she will fail. But she has the vulnerability to pull of a version like this, which besides being easier for her voice, is in my opinion a better portrayal in general.
I can't wait to see Frances as the Lovely Lady, it will be amazing! I think Kerry Ellis should be another Lovely Lady. :)
Her voice is so strong yet vulnerable; it has the perfect raspy quality. Her acting is immaculate, she honestly has one of the best portrayals of Eponine. You can just feel her pain, unlike so many modern Eponines. There will never be anyone that plays Eponine as she does, she's just heartbreaking. That said, i don't mind the belty versions of this song if they're done well. The problem is that often they're not, or if they are, the actress doesn't act it well enough ( cough*Chasten*cough).
If she wasn't talented enough, obviously she wouldn't have been chosen to originate the role. Her voice is unique and I believe it is perfect for the role of Eponine.
I love this version, i think it reflects the character very well - FR's interpretation of the character. Lea Salonga's version perfectly reflects her own interpretation. I can't say who i think is better, but i can tell you that i think both are unique and beautiful.
Some people here seem to think there’s only room for technically skilled singers, giving little regard to soul or acting ability. There are so many singers on Broadway today who, though are wonderfully proficient singers, have absolutely no idea how to put real depth and emotion into a song—they’re vanilla singers, pleasing but bland. Not every singer should sound the same, and many characters work much better with voices that aren’t “perfect.” Just look at Ethel Merman or Carol Channing.
@ThisIsEnglaaand Personally I love Frances. She's the only Eponine to give me goose bumps when she sings.
They hate on Frances because they don't know her. Most of the people know Les Miz through the 10th Anniversary concert. They think the "polished" version is the correct way of singing of "On My Own", and anybody who isn't belting the song is singing it incorrectly.
@luna23255 I know right? I love her too her voice is so relaxing. Personally though I like all the eponines :') They've all been brilliant singers and performers and the people that slander them are either jealous and bitter or rubbish singers themselves haha. To get on the west end stage you have to be great, which Frances and all the others are.
I actually like Frances's version better than the others, I like her screechy voice people would normally complain about...there's just something amazing to it for me. :D
I can't explain why Frances Ruffelle is superior to me to Lea Salonga- to me she embodies the roughness and innocence of Eponine, I love her. It has less to do with her voice then how she feel the music and character. Sure Lea Salonga is better technically but to me she is a disney singer- perfect but too brash for me. If technique was all that mattered then Justin Bieber would be a better artist then Tom Waits. Anyway, personally I think Frances F. is the most under-appreciated Eponine ever.
Seriously? I have nothing against the Sutton girl but you sound like an obsessed fan lol. Sutton Foster is a good singer but to call her 'great' is going too far imho.
What's with this crap about who Eponine is or isn't supposed to be? Sure, she's supposed to be "tough, gritty street girl".... But, she's also supposed to be a spoiled child who's grows up to be a homely drunk (who selfishly tries to get Marius killed before her death). I bet you fanbrats are glad the musical left those last few parts out, huh?
'Had to sign in to dislike this, gosh . . . can't believe that's how disgusted I was to this performance. Maybe because I have already seen Lea's . . . she is the best Eponine. Also the best Fantine.
@Pashley91684 y,know ,though leas good shes not as amazing as people say. All her performances that i have seen are quite similar and get a little boring after a while. I used to adore her and hate frances but Frances is now my favourite. Try to really listen to her. I get why your not so keen though.
having seen her perform on the London stage and seen so many others around the English speaking world, yes, she is vocally less able than most who have followed her-BUT her actual live performance had an nuance(French word LOL) which was just so "french" she was REAL she was Raw and she made was Eponine
I'm going as eponine for halloween. I love frances. Not cus shes original because I genrally dont like original casts but I love her. I used to loathe her(i feel a song comin on.thumbs up if U agree)but now she is probably my favourite with or ahead of miss Salonga
The first time I watched this, I think I hated it and agreed with the consensus that she sounds whiny, weak, etc. However, now that I have listened to a few other Eponines, like Kaho Shimada, I think this is really beautiful. I was used to Lea Salonga's really powerful version, but to me, different is okay. Eponine is strong and unafraid, but this is a moment of weakness, loneliness and introspection for her. I think everyone, even someone like Eponine, can have a breakdown moment.
Frances' acting is GREAT (Samantha Barks has nothing on her acting). Her interpretation here, however, was WRONG. She is NOT the whiny character resigned to sadness Frances portrays here. Eponine is a TOUGH, GRITTY street girl!
Frances is the best Eponine. Her performance is filled with longing and warmth, and it's heartbreaking. Lea is amazing, too. She sounds less like a dreamer, more like a strong girl who knows that her dreams will never come true. But Frances' voice is just magical.
lea is just too angry to make the song for me; this is a wistful, imaginative song that is supposed to convey longing, sorrow, and hope, not "i hate the world!"
Personally I find her voice rather whiny at times. I thought it was better when she was belting the high notes. Maybe if she had done that the whole song it would've been better because I feel as if Eponine should be portrayed as a rather strong-willed girl, but Frances' performance didn't fit that character.
She's a good singer, but she completely screwed up the part. And what made me dislike this even more was that this was performed on the year of my birth. That just made me dislike my birth date. Thanks a lot Frances. >.> Oh, and she makes it seem like Eponine is obsessed with Marius, not in love. Sorry, but tis true.
Isn't obsession part of the feeling of being in love? She knows her love for Marius cannot materialize (thus the title of the song), so there is an element of despair which may be what you refer to as obsession. For expressing emotion via voice, facial expression and body language, no one does Eponine better than Frances Ruffelle, whose depth of feeling and overall portrayal of the character is much, much better than anyone else's.
Everyone who plays Eponine or even watches people play Eponine has a different iterpretation of how Eponine should be, but its better to just watch with an open mind as if each performance is completely unrelated and just appreciate that they are all good, thats why they were cast!!
I'm a big fan of Lea Salongas version on this, but I also think that Rufelles is also great, she had that innocent voice that is perfect for that part, Lea took it to another level obviously. Rufelles version would always be one of my favorites also. At least she is much better than the new ones that are playing her character these days. It's a blasphemy they are using pop singers to play them.
Well, technically, haven't both Lea Salonga and Frances been pop singers at some stages in their career? I mean, Frances went to the Eurovision song contest with quite a poppy sing (though the fact that I don't remember the name of the song may mean my opinion counts for little; 'Lonely Symphony' I think it was called) and even though Lea has been doing musicals since she was seven years old, she has been a famous pop artist in the phillipines for not that much shorter a time.
@hole1991 - yes you are right, the only difference is back then, (and I am old enough to remember this) young people during the 70's and in the 80's were actually aspiring and trained first to sing in a broadway musical technic. Lea and Ruthie were both born and raised during those time era. Pop music had not really been established much til the late 80s. So Lea and Ruth grew up learning the broadway technic, The pop singing was almost like a way for them to do on the side to reach more audienc
if you would look at the music style of 70's and 80's it is very different from today espeically when it came for musicals. The development of good tone,breathing and singing properly was valued very high as oppose to today. Even movies like "Fame" " Rocky Horror Picture show" celebrated those ideals.
I'm sorry, but I don't understand. Isn't that still a priority in whatever style of vocal you take?
And additionally, I thought that was the problem people have with Frances voice (eg, saying that the foundation of her voice is quite weak and she is rather nasal; while I quite like her voice, that is what people who are far more aware of these things then I am say)?
@hole1991 - nope it's not the priority. If you want to be successful in the broadway you go down that path but if you are going to be gust a pop singer there is no need to do that. Hence that is why we have Britney, Christina, Gustin Timberlake who got all their lessons from mouse club and then you have the hip hop rappers that only needs to grow up in the ghetto to get a record deal. Dont get me wrong there are a lot of talented pop singers today that have started down honing they're vocal skil
Although, after looking into this a little bit more, I find that Eponine isn't played by a pop star as much as Marius is. I mean, generally, Eponine has been played by actresses who have had more of a prior reputation in musical theatre then in pop music (the Lea's, Frances, Samantha Barks, Kerry Butler, etc; whether or not you like them, well that's your business). Whereas Marius has been played by people established as pop stars like Gareth Gates, Jon Lee, Nick Jonas, etc.
She screwed up playing the character she originated in the first place (not to mention both in the West End & Broadway)? Seriously! Then why bother to watch it and comment? Out of boredom perhaps?
@KateBushDepot Why can't you deal with the fact that someone doesn't like her? I thought Francis was really screechy and annoying in the West End recording, but a little better in the Broadway. Just because she originated the role doesn't mean everyone has to love her.
FYI, I CAN deal with the fact that there are LesMis fans who don't like her. I very open-minded you know. What I can't stand ARE people who post nasty comments. If you don't like Frances then why watch her performance? I don't watch videos of Lea Michele or other Eponines I dislike.
you are all idiots! ( Those who moan and critic Frances) Trevor Nunn and the whole creative team hired Frances to play Eponine because they felt she was perfect for their production she worked with them to perfect the portrayal they all wanted and felt right for this musical adaption of LES MISERABLES
One of the things I can't stand in the always made "is Frances ruffelle a good eponine" argument is people who say her voice should be whiny and tough and not have good diction because that's not her character. Her character wouldn't sing in the first place! This is a musical! The actress playing her should have a good singing voice. Would Jean valijean actually sing to make his decisions if this were real life? No. Therefore, you can't say that someones voice should be bad because their chara
Frances has a good singing voice. You should definitely watch or listen to her do other stuff besides LesMis.
Musical theatre is also more than just a platform for bland, over-rated, screeching divas whose primary purpose is to show off on stage. It's so much more than that if you care enough to think outside the box. Send In The Clowns is one of the most beautiful songs ever written and it ended up being sung to perfection by an artist who doesn't have killer pipes.
@KateBushDepot I still don't think she has that great of a voice. And yes, I realize that people without fantastic voices can do well with musical theater, because of the acting side of it. However, I still don't think she nails the character. The top comment on the page explains it perfectly, she is upset, but she is an incredibly strong person. I don't think she communicates that as well as other actresses who have played Eponine. I respect those who think she is good, I simply don't.
@KateBushDepot I agree. when I listen to Frances sing "On My Own", I am far more affected emotionally than when Lea sings it. In Frances' version, she sounds so heartbroken, lonely, and passionate, and you can actually hear her emotions. And I think that, in part, that's from the sultry sound of her voice, not whiny sound. Lea is an amazing singer, but I definitely prefer Frances' Eponine. :)
@philliesphan804. An Eponine with gritty belt provides the perfect counterpoint to Cosette's sweet, lyrical soprano. That's what people mean when they say Eponine SHOULD sound "whiny and tough." She is the antithesis of Cosette and her voice should reflect that. Eponine has lived a hard and miserable life on the streets, Cosette is pure, innocent and protected.
@philliesphan804 Shes still a good eponine. i used to loathe her and love salonga but now i love frances and dont mind lea. She does sing well to character( though i get your argument) and adds something great to eponine
she got it right with this song. this is eponine's moment to break her tough girl facade and show vulnerability. frances voice is 80's pop and lea's voice is modern honestly that's why ppl perfer lea
Wow!! Still the absolute BEST Eponine ever as far as I'm concerned. Last few comments make reference to Lea's portrayal of the role so I'll say this. Lea is a fantastic singer, absolutely amazing. She is the BEST Kim ever in my books. Lea's Eponine? Not so much. Frances has a great belt voice and the passion she puts into this song each and every time she sings it is phenominal. Love her!!!
She's actually quite charming and lovely in person. Too bad she can't sing and she portrays the role incorrectly. She was NOT considered for The Dream Cast. In addition to having lost favor with CM for personal reasons, Salonga rose up to the role backed by much critical acclaim for her performances at the US tour and on the West End.
I've actually always preferred Frances over Lea simply BECAUSE Lea's voice is too pretty. 'Ponine is living in the depths of poverty, and she's rather under-educated. She's not going to have perfect vocals or diction. I always felt Frances' admittedly more nasal voice was more appropriate, and can that woman BELT, which certainly helps show 'Ponine's strength as a character. XD Again, everything is a matter of opinion, but Frances will always be the greatest Eponine to me. : )
I think she is really good.. you are all just haters, I mean you are all turning to mainstream voices, this girl is extraordinarily talented. She is obviously an amazing actor and kicks all of the former eponines ass on that, and as for her "whiny voice" you guys must be use to voices that lack character, so all in all I think this could be the best Eponine that has ever been.
I don't think anyone has doubts about her acting skills. It's very obvious she can't sing though, no matter what or how many awards she's received (she'll never be a complete musical theater actor until she leans how to sing). By the way, she didn't win the Olivier Award for Les Miz; Patti LuPone did.
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@aaprato 99% of your credibility just flew out the window with the ludicrous statement that she "can't sing" and that "she needs to learn how to sing." Are you deaf, stupid, or just suffer from selective hearing? Or maybe this one performance is your only exposure. Even then, your statement is still a bunch of hogwash. Of course she can sing. There's no question she can. You personally finding it to your liking or not doesn't determine whether or not she can sing. You're not THAT important.
It makes me laugh to read some people's comments saying Frances can't sing. Boublil and Schönberg used her vocals in the demo recordings of Miss Saigon, and she also sang in the Sydmonton Festival presentation of Lloyd Webber's partially completed Sunset Boulevard. Ironically people who knew so little are the ones who are very critical.
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@aaprato just because you are tone-deaf doesn't mean you can say who can 'obviously' sing or not. I have been taking music and singing in competative choirs for years and trust me, she can absolutely sing. This recording is bad though. Not her in it, the microphone that did the recording.
ARE YOU PEOPLE RETARDED!? "missed the character"!? SHE ORIGINATED THE ROLE. SHE'S PLAYING THE CHARACTER THE WAY IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE BECAUSE SHE WAS DIRECTED. SHE WON A TONY FOR IT. AN OLIVIER AWARD. A THEATRE WORLD AWARD. It's Okay not to LIKE a performer, but don't write as if you know what you're talking about because you people OBVIOUSLY don't. It doens't take watching videos on youtube to KNOW about musical theatre and it's performers. It takes years and years of studies. GO STUDY!
Alright..the creators of this wonderful musical went through the same painful process of picking the best Eponine the same way they found the "perfect" KIm for Ms. Saigon. Kim was a great replacement for Frances because they trusted her ability not because they thought she was better. Lea is their Kim and Frances is their Eponine. Point, Blank, and Period.
Maybe Lea is better now but Frances is Eponine. She created the character, without her doing what she did with the character Lea would not be able to be what she is. Everyeone always compares one to the other but the original set the bar. If she was as horrible as you believe then why was she the part? Maybe Lea sings the part better but the original well always be the best. Every Eponine after Frances will try to be like what she did. Its comparing apples to oranges
@magruder801 No. I don't even like Lea Salonga (I don't like those pathetic Philiphinos!), but from what I gather, Salonga READ the book, so she would have known how to attack the role even without FR originating it. In fact, it's precisely because Salonga did NOT follow FR's lead that her ugly legions of fans like her interpretation.
Frances totally missed the character. Worse, she can't sing. Whiny, nasal, inability to sustain notes, inarticulate. Have you heard her in the 25th anniversary finale? 25 years after the opening and she STILL can't perform! It's not like voice and acting lessons haven't been around in the last century!
@annief31 Francis totally missed the character? Who are you, the ghost of Victor Hugo? Better yet, don't you have something better to do than spread such hate? If you didn't like it, all you needed to do was hit the stop button and go away. There was utterly no reason to leave such a mean-spirited comment. Frances was a wonderful Eponine. I did listen to the 25th Anniversary Concert and I thought Patti, Rebecca, Colm, Michael, Frances, etc. all sounded wonderful.
@dinitramide I never saw Frances on stage but I've loved what I've seen and heard of her performance in the original Broadway production. Unfortunately, she sells herself rather short in this concert performance. I'm disappointed by her choice of trying to come off girlish and/or sultry. Don't know what she was going for but she should have given a level of performance as heard on the original Broadway cast recording, which is electric and passionate. I love Frances but this isn't her best.
I love Frances' voice. I don't hear her as weak or whiny. I think they intended her to sound less educated than the prim and proper Cosette. To me she sounds like a strong willed "white trash" girl who is trying to cope with the cards she is dealt. Amazing.
The only whining I hear going on here is all of you people who think you know who should and should not sing the part of Eponine. Let it go people. each and every one of the girls who has played this role has brought something different, yet the same to the role. Frances was the first, and won a Tony Award , and many other awards for it. Everyone has their opinion, and it's so WRONG to come here and talk about someone's singing.
@smjonesy33 If this were Facebook, I would like this comment about a hundred times if I could. I don't understand why people who don't like it feel that they need to comment. Or about other people who have played Éponine, etc. Really, the only person who has ever emotionally moved me in this role has been Frances, followed only by Celia Keenan-Bolger. This is one of my favourite performances ever.
I don't think the creator of Eponine meant for her to speak in a neigh tone.It's true that physically she was puny, a bit emaciated with mangled hair and really a description of a street person and boyish yet,i'm sure she was fragile inside.At this scene,she showed anger and despair for a love that will never be returned.would you not ?but still her love for him never fades.
frankly, i think the whine in her voice is perfect for the role. no doubt that lea salonga is absolutely amazing. frances could put in some power into it but the whine is her personal interpretation of the character and i think it works. i kind of like rosalind james the best though. (the british touring cast for the 25th anniv) she's just amazing
Every time I hear this song, I feel so hopeful that THIS time Marius will notice Eponine... Then she dies, and I bawl like the hopeless romantic I am...
Although her interpretation is far from the character in the book and her voice & singing are an acquired taste, I really like her. It's great to see unique and different versions!
Both are good but Frances i first heard way back in '88 and the feeling and emotion grabbed me. It's interpretation that everyone's missing. This particular performance is sounds phones in, but the Original Broadway Cast; Incomparable.
I love both versions, and Lea's voice is amazing, but to me this version is Eponine as I always imagined her. Frances style is so unique and haunting, that it is forever etched in my memory form the first time I heard the CD of the original 1985 cast. I love Lea's interpretation of the part, and very much enjoy listening to her and it moves me in a powerful way, but nothing like this version does.
Goodness. They sound nothing alike. While I can understand comparing Michele to Lea Salonga, which pauses and emphasis sound very similar, Frances sounds very different. Have respect, if not for her singing, then for her being the original Eponine.
For what it's worth, I love both performances. Salonga's voice is the strongest, but there's a unique quality to Rufelle's version that for me brings a greater connection to the character. Salonga's is a stage performance, Rufelle's brings a greater intimacy.
As for those who compare Eponine in the musical to the book, I think you need a reality check. This is an interpretation of the book, not a translation.
It is of course subjective anyway, and I'm happy to enjoy and admire both.
i came here to compare salonga and rufelle and in my opinion there is absolutely no comparison what so ever, rufelle is a terrible eponine imo, salonga on the other hand conveys the character of eponine,she is strong but is suffering from terrible unrequited love for marius, and has amazing vocals and acting to back it up, rufelle is weak,whiny and to me she cant sing or act ! i adore les mis and eponine is my dream role and salonga is the eponine i idolise!!
Fair enough, I uploaded this video for people who prefer Frances. But you know, it's not always a question of who is the better singer. Eponine's part is meant to be sung this way. As for her acting, no one can portray Eponine's vulnerability & sadness the way Frances does imho. It takes more than just amazing pipes and flawless technique to take a role and make it your own. If you still don't get it, listen to 'Send in the Clowns' by either Glynnis Johns or Judi Dench.
@KateBushDepot Nah. I still prefer Judy Collins or Barbra Streisand sing SITC than either Glynnis Or Dench. I can only assume most people agree with me since more of them bought the two former singers' records than the latters. I could be wrong.
Well if the highly overrated cast of the even more atrociously overrated show GLEE recorded an album of LesMis covers, it wouldn't surprise me in the least if it ends up outselling all LesMis recordings released since the 80s onwards. There is something called commercial appeal and preference, but let's not forget artistic merit/integrity.
Having said that, I'd like to add that I have nothing against Barbra and Judy Collin's covers. They're both good singers in their own right.
@KateBushDepot I disagree with you here as well. While a lot of people watch Glee (and I'm not one of them), not many will spend money to buy their CDs or download their mediocre product. It's a show about amateurs trying to be professionals and failing miserably.
This is not Eponine in the book. Frances Rufelle ,though good, sounded weak and howling here. Lea Salonga's performance on the other hand, justified the role of Eponine!
Although I think both renditions of the song (Salonga and Ruffelle) are great in their own rights, I preffer Frances Ruffelles better. For me she really captures the emotions of Eponine and that is what I really admire. When I see and hear Salonga's rendition I feel like her singing leads me away of how she actually feels because her voice is so powerful and it is like that even when she should sound hopeful or happy. It is one constant powerful tone and I do not think it was intended for that.
I come back to this video to say that this performances moves me so deeply. I LOVE her voice. Has anyone else heard her version of "Smile?" She is an amazing singer. Her voice is unique, with imperfections that WORK. She how I thought Éponine should sound: emotive, haunted and rough around the edges but still beautiful. This performance makes me tear up. She is an incredible actress and my only Éponine.
When it comes to Eponine, there are 3 performers that I like. Frances Ruffelle, Lea Salonga and Samantha Barks. All 3 portrayed the character differently, but they portrayed them well. When Frances sings, I pity Eponine, When Samantha sings, I want to comfort Eponine. And when Lea sings I want Marius to choose Eponine over Cosette. I chill whenever I hear her voice. All 3 of them appeal to my emotion. They make me imagine things. I can put myself on Eponine's shoes when I watch them perform.
JessaGrace091887 2 weeks ago
wait what the fuck. shes an AMAZING singer. in fact i dont really get what you douchebags are talking about. the first 2 minutes where the sound quality is bad? fucking plese. isnt she the first original REAL eponine. and she can hit the high notes PERFECTLY. really shut the fuck up -.-.
thehorrorsof 2 weeks ago
THIS CHICK IS FREAKING AMAZING. ANYONE WHO SAYS OTHERWISE IS NUTS.
alle789100 2 weeks ago
@JessaGrace091887 Yes, I know she is the original Eponine. I didn't say she wasn't. She also originated the role on Broadway.
sunderlandgrl 2 weeks ago
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sunderlandgrl 2 weeks ago
Eponine is my favorite character in the musical "Les Miserables and I can't imagine Taylor Swift singing "On My Own". I like her songs "A Place in this World" and "The Best Day". But if she could only sing like Frances Ruffelle or Lea Salonga, she would be fitted for the role. But she is not. Samantha Barks is the one who can play it well. I think Taylor would just make a fool of herself is she play Eponine. I'm a fan of Taylor Swift, but I'm also a Les Mis fanatic.
JessaGrace091887 2 weeks ago
I can understand why many people might not like her. But i think people should understand, everyone of them, Lea, Samantha, Frances etc all portrayed a different Eponine each with their own unique characteristics. I first listened to Lea and Samantha's version and ive recently discovered Frances and i really think her portrayal of Eponine is very different and i love it!
pigzrulez 2 weeks ago
@pigzrulez Frances is the original Eponine in London.
JessaGrace091887 2 weeks ago
Personally, I don't like her. There's no power in her vocals to represent the powerful character she's potraying - especially with those high notes. She can't reach them without having to strain. Musical theatre isn't just about the singing, I know, it's about the acting too which she does fine but as this is musical theatre, you're suppose to be able to take on both skills which France Ruffelle struggles with. To me, she slurs every note she sings and I don't like that.
sunderlandgrl 2 weeks ago
Such horrible singing!
mmbr01nnf 3 weeks ago
@mmbr01nnf
It isn't. It's what I'd call highly individualistic singing. Humor me just this once, have an open mind and listen to some of the world's highly accomplished singers/artists such as Edith Piaf, Ethel Merman, Carol Channing, Leonard Cohen, Angela Lansbury, Joni Mitchell, Kate Bush, Bernadette Peters, David Bowie, Jeff Buckley, Grace Jones, Tori Amos, Bjork, Freddie Mercury, & Nina Hagen. Frances has one thing with them in common: they all have very distinctive voices.
KateBushDepot 2 weeks ago 2
@KateBushDepot She is the original Eponine in London and Broadway. She's the first one to sing all the songs of Eponine.
JessaGrace091887 2 weeks ago
@mmbr01nnf
well, she own a Tony for THIS role.
yihua68 7 hours ago
I like her - she's charming and emotive. She can't sing, however, and since this is a musical, she's totally wrong for this role. I'm sure she'll be excellent in non-musical stage performances since she seems to be a really good actor.
lovelynancyopel 3 weeks ago
@lovelynancyopel
You seem to forget that musical theatre is NOT only about singing. Some of the most memorable songs in musical theatre are written for people who can't sing well. Sally Bowles (Cabaret) and Desiree Armfeldt (A Little Night Music) to name two. Why do you think they hired Dame Judi Dench to play both of the characters I mentioned? Because she can't sing? Hardly. It's because she can ACT THE HELL out of those characters. Frances acted the hell out of Eponine too, just saying. ;)
KateBushDepot 2 weeks ago
@KateBushDepot As someone who's acted and sang in broadway, i've seen a lot better acting than this for eponine, just saying. ;)
lstogner 2 weeks ago
@lstogner
And yet they hired her to reprise the role on Broadway, just saying. ;)
But I do agree with you on one point. Yeah, there are loads of better singers than Frances out there and a helluva lot of better actors as well. However, Frances has a certain 'je ne sais quoi' in her portrayal of Eponine which a lot of people hasn't. There are a lot of actors on Broadway who are uber-talented with matching killer pipes but they just don't have that quality. "You either got it or you ain't"... lol
KateBushDepot 2 weeks ago
@lstogner
Btw, just out of curiosity, have you ever been cast in LesMis (as Eponine or Cosette)? I asked because you mentioned having some Broadway experience. If yes then I'm very happy for you. If you made it to Broadway then you must be really good (and no, that's not sarcasm lol).
KateBushDepot 2 weeks ago
@KateBushDepot Hahah. I have been cast in Les Mis, but not as eponine or cosette haha
lstogner 1 week ago
And don't forget, She is the one that won the Tony for her performance. No one else
ErinLovegood 3 weeks ago
@ErinLovegood THIS.
collectingbees 2 weeks ago
Frances Ruffelle, is first and forever, Eponine. She brings a venerability that is lacking with a many of the newer actresses. They rush through it and sing it by rote. She will always be the best!
ErinLovegood 3 weeks ago
Taylor swift doesn't have the power CHasten Harmon does, although it is likely she or Lea will be the ones Taylor looks to. If she attempts a belty on my own, she will fail. But she has the vulnerability to pull of a version like this, which besides being easier for her voice, is in my opinion a better portrayal in general.
I can't wait to see Frances as the Lovely Lady, it will be amazing! I think Kerry Ellis should be another Lovely Lady. :)
RoseInMisery7 3 weeks ago
Her voice is so strong yet vulnerable; it has the perfect raspy quality. Her acting is immaculate, she honestly has one of the best portrayals of Eponine. You can just feel her pain, unlike so many modern Eponines. There will never be anyone that plays Eponine as she does, she's just heartbreaking. That said, i don't mind the belty versions of this song if they're done well. The problem is that often they're not, or if they are, the actress doesn't act it well enough ( cough*Chasten*cough).
RoseInMisery7 3 weeks ago
If she wasn't talented enough, obviously she wouldn't have been chosen to originate the role. Her voice is unique and I believe it is perfect for the role of Eponine.
AudBall916 1 month ago 2
I love this version, i think it reflects the character very well - FR's interpretation of the character. Lea Salonga's version perfectly reflects her own interpretation. I can't say who i think is better, but i can tell you that i think both are unique and beautiful.
EkseteraEksetera 1 month ago 3
She's good. Lea Salonga, Samanta Barks and Frances Ruffelle are my favourite Eponine.
AnnieVesper 1 month ago 2
Some people here seem to think there’s only room for technically skilled singers, giving little regard to soul or acting ability. There are so many singers on Broadway today who, though are wonderfully proficient singers, have absolutely no idea how to put real depth and emotion into a song—they’re vanilla singers, pleasing but bland. Not every singer should sound the same, and many characters work much better with voices that aren’t “perfect.” Just look at Ethel Merman or Carol Channing.
Capricaquarius89 1 month ago 10
@Capricaquarius89
Exactly!
KateBushDepot 1 month ago
@Capricaquarius89 Conversely, there are those who have soul in acting, but CAN'T sing. For these actors, musicals should be a NO-NO!
mmbr01nff 3 weeks ago
While I don't hate the singer, her voice is rather quiet. But that could be because the video may be badly recorded.
Una7654 1 month ago
Why does everyone hate Frances Ruffelle...as the original cast Eponine, to start the character off she has to have been good. Pathetic trolls :)
ThisIsEnglaaand 1 month ago
@ThisIsEnglaaand Personally I love Frances. She's the only Eponine to give me goose bumps when she sings.
They hate on Frances because they don't know her. Most of the people know Les Miz through the 10th Anniversary concert. They think the "polished" version is the correct way of singing of "On My Own", and anybody who isn't belting the song is singing it incorrectly.
luna23255 1 month ago
@luna23255 I know right? I love her too her voice is so relaxing. Personally though I like all the eponines :') They've all been brilliant singers and performers and the people that slander them are either jealous and bitter or rubbish singers themselves haha. To get on the west end stage you have to be great, which Frances and all the others are.
ThisIsEnglaaand 1 month ago
@luna23255
Ditto. I couldn't have said it better myself!
KateBushDepot 1 month ago
My favorite Eponine by far. Lea (both of them) lack the depth of emotion that Frances has. They are too polished. Frances got it just right.
devane85 1 month ago
I actually like Frances's version better than the others, I like her screechy voice people would normally complain about...there's just something amazing to it for me. :D
AutumnMalfoy 2 months ago
She's pretty. But she can't sing.
ruthiehenshalllesmiz 2 months ago 2
I can't explain why Frances Ruffelle is superior to me to Lea Salonga- to me she embodies the roughness and innocence of Eponine, I love her. It has less to do with her voice then how she feel the music and character. Sure Lea Salonga is better technically but to me she is a disney singer- perfect but too brash for me. If technique was all that mattered then Justin Bieber would be a better artist then Tom Waits. Anyway, personally I think Frances F. is the most under-appreciated Eponine ever.
JaredWilliams 2 months ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
I'm sorry, but the posters are right: Frances Ruffelle can't sing! She should have taken singing and acting lessons from the great Sutton Foster.
suttonfosteristhebes 2 months ago
@suttonfosteristhebes
Seriously? I have nothing against the Sutton girl but you sound like an obsessed fan lol. Sutton Foster is a good singer but to call her 'great' is going too far imho.
KateBushDepot 1 month ago 4
@suttonfosteristhebes You must be crazy. You want her to learn from the ugly, OVERRATED, hammy "actress" Sutton Foster how to SQUEAK out notes???
idinarockssutonsucks 3 weeks ago 2
What's with this crap about who Eponine is or isn't supposed to be? Sure, she's supposed to be "tough, gritty street girl".... But, she's also supposed to be a spoiled child who's grows up to be a homely drunk (who selfishly tries to get Marius killed before her death). I bet you fanbrats are glad the musical left those last few parts out, huh?
widdlepuddyfat 2 months ago
'Had to sign in to dislike this, gosh . . . can't believe that's how disgusted I was to this performance. Maybe because I have already seen Lea's . . . she is the best Eponine. Also the best Fantine.
riqjoy09 2 months ago 3
@Cutenhette4real. I completely agree. Her voice is whiny and cannot compare to lea's. Still I think Samantha Banks was the best eponine.
AmelieDumond 2 months ago
Bad bad bad bad bad...
sammyers555 3 months ago
The number of "dislikes" for this video/singer is both shocking and unkind.
bullseye1a 3 months ago
@bullseye1a it's well deserved. listen to Lea Salonga and you'd realize how pitiful this performance truly is
Pashley91684 3 months ago 2
@Pashley91684 y,know ,though leas good shes not as amazing as people say. All her performances that i have seen are quite similar and get a little boring after a while. I used to adore her and hate frances but Frances is now my favourite. Try to really listen to her. I get why your not so keen though.
BagOfSticksFork 3 months ago
having seen her perform on the London stage and seen so many others around the English speaking world, yes, she is vocally less able than most who have followed her-BUT her actual live performance had an nuance(French word LOL) which was just so "french" she was REAL she was Raw and she made was Eponine
anthonyhenrysmith 3 months ago
Well I think she's amazing.
AllyNP7 4 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
I'm going as eponine for halloween. I love frances. Not cus shes original because I genrally dont like original casts but I love her. I used to loathe her(i feel a song comin on.thumbs up if U agree)but now she is probably my favourite with or ahead of miss Salonga
BagOfSticksFork 4 months ago
Being original doesn't its mean the best. Frances Ruffelle portrayal of Eponine is WRONG.
EPONINE is NOT the whiny character resigned to sadness as Frances portrays here.
According to the book, Eponine is a TOUGH, GRITTY street girl who is obsessed with Marius. and that was well portrayed by Lea Salonga.
cutenhette4real 4 months ago 3
this is an ok video
leah098able 4 months ago 2
The first time I watched this, I think I hated it and agreed with the consensus that she sounds whiny, weak, etc. However, now that I have listened to a few other Eponines, like Kaho Shimada, I think this is really beautiful. I was used to Lea Salonga's really powerful version, but to me, different is okay. Eponine is strong and unafraid, but this is a moment of weakness, loneliness and introspection for her. I think everyone, even someone like Eponine, can have a breakdown moment.
blueberryicedtea 4 months ago
@blueberryicedtea Finally! Someone i can really agree with. I used to hate her too =(. The exact same thing happened to me.
BagOfSticksFork 3 months ago
Frances' acting is GREAT (Samantha Barks has nothing on her acting). Her interpretation here, however, was WRONG. She is NOT the whiny character resigned to sadness Frances portrays here. Eponine is a TOUGH, GRITTY street girl!
aldrinhu 4 months ago 3
I've never been a huge fan of Frances' voice in this number, but she's beautiful and she's emotional, so I can't dislike her.
georgiarosewilson 4 months ago
i'm sorry, she screwed up the part???. you people are out of your mind... she awesome.
br875 4 months ago 6
This has been flagged as spam show
No one beats Frances in depth of emotion and expression.
Someone else's technique may be better in terms of music theory, but you need emotion to give it life.
ggb4mgc 4 months ago 5
Samantha Barks is better !!!
TheRatedRFan1 5 months ago
Where can I get this version?
xxkewldudexx 5 months ago
Frances did sorta good her but it still sucked...im sorry but it did samantha barks was the best
ducktapegirll 5 months ago
She looks different here.
shahoney 5 months ago
Frances is the best Eponine. Her performance is filled with longing and warmth, and it's heartbreaking. Lea is amazing, too. She sounds less like a dreamer, more like a strong girl who knows that her dreams will never come true. But Frances' voice is just magical.
andromache007 5 months ago
lea is just too angry to make the song for me; this is a wistful, imaginative song that is supposed to convey longing, sorrow, and hope, not "i hate the world!"
lemoulinrouge 5 months ago
Personally I find her voice rather whiny at times. I thought it was better when she was belting the high notes. Maybe if she had done that the whole song it would've been better because I feel as if Eponine should be portrayed as a rather strong-willed girl, but Frances' performance didn't fit that character.
LaurzCogan 5 months ago 2
the best. always goosebumps
ciaconne 6 months ago
so so
pulrivera70 6 months ago
i agree with the comment that says Frances portrayed Eponine as OBSESSED with Marius and not in love.
cutenhette4real 6 months ago
She's a good singer, but she completely screwed up the part. And what made me dislike this even more was that this was performed on the year of my birth. That just made me dislike my birth date. Thanks a lot Frances. >.> Oh, and she makes it seem like Eponine is obsessed with Marius, not in love. Sorry, but tis true.
PhantomloverSNAFU 6 months ago
@PhantomloverSNAFU
Isn't obsession part of the feeling of being in love? She knows her love for Marius cannot materialize (thus the title of the song), so there is an element of despair which may be what you refer to as obsession. For expressing emotion via voice, facial expression and body language, no one does Eponine better than Frances Ruffelle, whose depth of feeling and overall portrayal of the character is much, much better than anyone else's.
ggb4mgc 6 months ago
Comment removed
PhantomloverSNAFU 6 months ago
Everyone who plays Eponine or even watches people play Eponine has a different iterpretation of how Eponine should be, but its better to just watch with an open mind as if each performance is completely unrelated and just appreciate that they are all good, thats why they were cast!!
anon0987654 7 months ago
@anon0987654
But she originated this part?
NeoGrimz543 6 months ago
@NeoGrimz543 Yes.... she did.... sorry I don't really understand what you mean by saying that?
anon0987654 6 months ago
I am a fan of Lea Salonga but I have also high respects for Frances Rufelle! She did well too! :)
Sibzist 7 months ago
sorry but her voice was a bit husky but that was good singing still :) <3
musicanimerox 7 months ago
I want to hit it like that!!
jbLover9811 7 months ago
I think she's an amazing singer... How the hell is she not here?
SuperButters90 7 months ago
I'm a big fan of Lea Salongas version on this, but I also think that Rufelles is also great, she had that innocent voice that is perfect for that part, Lea took it to another level obviously. Rufelles version would always be one of my favorites also. At least she is much better than the new ones that are playing her character these days. It's a blasphemy they are using pop singers to play them.
devonferris 7 months ago 3
@devonferris
Well, technically, haven't both Lea Salonga and Frances been pop singers at some stages in their career? I mean, Frances went to the Eurovision song contest with quite a poppy sing (though the fact that I don't remember the name of the song may mean my opinion counts for little; 'Lonely Symphony' I think it was called) and even though Lea has been doing musicals since she was seven years old, she has been a famous pop artist in the phillipines for not that much shorter a time.
hole1991 7 months ago
@hole1991 - yes you are right, the only difference is back then, (and I am old enough to remember this) young people during the 70's and in the 80's were actually aspiring and trained first to sing in a broadway musical technic. Lea and Ruthie were both born and raised during those time era. Pop music had not really been established much til the late 80s. So Lea and Ruth grew up learning the broadway technic, The pop singing was almost like a way for them to do on the side to reach more audienc
devonferris 6 months ago
if you would look at the music style of 70's and 80's it is very different from today espeically when it came for musicals. The development of good tone,breathing and singing properly was valued very high as oppose to today. Even movies like "Fame" " Rocky Horror Picture show" celebrated those ideals.
devonferris 6 months ago
@devonferris
I'm sorry, but I don't understand. Isn't that still a priority in whatever style of vocal you take?
And additionally, I thought that was the problem people have with Frances voice (eg, saying that the foundation of her voice is quite weak and she is rather nasal; while I quite like her voice, that is what people who are far more aware of these things then I am say)?
hole1991 6 months ago
@hole1991 - nope it's not the priority. If you want to be successful in the broadway you go down that path but if you are going to be gust a pop singer there is no need to do that. Hence that is why we have Britney, Christina, Gustin Timberlake who got all their lessons from mouse club and then you have the hip hop rappers that only needs to grow up in the ghetto to get a record deal. Dont get me wrong there are a lot of talented pop singers today that have started down honing they're vocal skil
devonferris 6 months ago
@devonferris
Although, after looking into this a little bit more, I find that Eponine isn't played by a pop star as much as Marius is. I mean, generally, Eponine has been played by actresses who have had more of a prior reputation in musical theatre then in pop music (the Lea's, Frances, Samantha Barks, Kerry Butler, etc; whether or not you like them, well that's your business). Whereas Marius has been played by people established as pop stars like Gareth Gates, Jon Lee, Nick Jonas, etc.
hole1991 1 month ago
Sorry frances... U screwed up the part
ducktapegirll 7 months ago
@ducktapegirll
She screwed up playing the character she originated in the first place (not to mention both in the West End & Broadway)? Seriously! Then why bother to watch it and comment? Out of boredom perhaps?
KateBushDepot 7 months ago 33
@KateBushDepot Why can't you deal with the fact that someone doesn't like her? I thought Francis was really screechy and annoying in the West End recording, but a little better in the Broadway. Just because she originated the role doesn't mean everyone has to love her.
lisambofoh 6 months ago
@lisambofoh
FYI, I CAN deal with the fact that there are LesMis fans who don't like her. I very open-minded you know. What I can't stand ARE people who post nasty comments. If you don't like Frances then why watch her performance? I don't watch videos of Lea Michele or other Eponines I dislike.
KateBushDepot 6 months ago 29
@KateBushDepot Why not? I like to hear and comment on as many Epinines as possible.
lisambofoh 6 months ago
@ducktapegirll she also won a Tony for the role, just saying
Ryanlaskey 3 months ago
@ducktapegirll She screwed up singing on Broadway for the past 30 years....
Pashley91684 3 months ago
you are all idiots! ( Those who moan and critic Frances) Trevor Nunn and the whole creative team hired Frances to play Eponine because they felt she was perfect for their production she worked with them to perfect the portrayal they all wanted and felt right for this musical adaption of LES MISERABLES
popprimgal 2 months ago
One of the things I can't stand in the always made "is Frances ruffelle a good eponine" argument is people who say her voice should be whiny and tough and not have good diction because that's not her character. Her character wouldn't sing in the first place! This is a musical! The actress playing her should have a good singing voice. Would Jean valijean actually sing to make his decisions if this were real life? No. Therefore, you can't say that someones voice should be bad because their chara
philliesphan804 7 months ago 18
@philliesphan804
Frances has a good singing voice. You should definitely watch or listen to her do other stuff besides LesMis.
Musical theatre is also more than just a platform for bland, over-rated, screeching divas whose primary purpose is to show off on stage. It's so much more than that if you care enough to think outside the box. Send In The Clowns is one of the most beautiful songs ever written and it ended up being sung to perfection by an artist who doesn't have killer pipes.
KateBushDepot 7 months ago 18
@KateBushDepot I still don't think she has that great of a voice. And yes, I realize that people without fantastic voices can do well with musical theater, because of the acting side of it. However, I still don't think she nails the character. The top comment on the page explains it perfectly, she is upset, but she is an incredibly strong person. I don't think she communicates that as well as other actresses who have played Eponine. I respect those who think she is good, I simply don't.
philliesphan804 7 months ago 3
@KateBushDepot I agree. when I listen to Frances sing "On My Own", I am far more affected emotionally than when Lea sings it. In Frances' version, she sounds so heartbroken, lonely, and passionate, and you can actually hear her emotions. And I think that, in part, that's from the sultry sound of her voice, not whiny sound. Lea is an amazing singer, but I definitely prefer Frances' Eponine. :)
kallileck 2 months ago
@philliesphan804. An Eponine with gritty belt provides the perfect counterpoint to Cosette's sweet, lyrical soprano. That's what people mean when they say Eponine SHOULD sound "whiny and tough." She is the antithesis of Cosette and her voice should reflect that. Eponine has lived a hard and miserable life on the streets, Cosette is pure, innocent and protected.
Capricaquarius89 4 months ago
@philliesphan804 Shes still a good eponine. i used to loathe her and love salonga but now i love frances and dont mind lea. She does sing well to character( though i get your argument) and adds something great to eponine
BagOfSticksFork 3 months ago
i cant help but love her even though shes not the best singer... shes such a good actress and her voice is charming. not the best... but charming.
MrGollygeee 8 months ago
love frances
she got it right with this song. this is eponine's moment to break her tough girl facade and show vulnerability. frances voice is 80's pop and lea's voice is modern honestly that's why ppl perfer lea
ImUrFanGirl 8 months ago 3
Wow!! Still the absolute BEST Eponine ever as far as I'm concerned. Last few comments make reference to Lea's portrayal of the role so I'll say this. Lea is a fantastic singer, absolutely amazing. She is the BEST Kim ever in my books. Lea's Eponine? Not so much. Frances has a great belt voice and the passion she puts into this song each and every time she sings it is phenominal. Love her!!!
MissSai99 8 months ago
She's actually quite charming and lovely in person. Too bad she can't sing and she portrays the role incorrectly. She was NOT considered for The Dream Cast. In addition to having lost favor with CM for personal reasons, Salonga rose up to the role backed by much critical acclaim for her performances at the US tour and on the West End.
woodlandb234 8 months ago 4
personaly i perfer fraces, mostely because of all the emotion you can hear her put into her voice, i think her voice is beautiful
izziebarrie 8 months ago
I've actually always preferred Frances over Lea simply BECAUSE Lea's voice is too pretty. 'Ponine is living in the depths of poverty, and she's rather under-educated. She's not going to have perfect vocals or diction. I always felt Frances' admittedly more nasal voice was more appropriate, and can that woman BELT, which certainly helps show 'Ponine's strength as a character. XD Again, everything is a matter of opinion, but Frances will always be the greatest Eponine to me. : )
AnnaLeBeau 8 months ago
@AnnaLeBeau
Amen to that! You took the words right out of my mouth! :3
yourworstnightmare51 8 months ago
Thank you for uploading this, btw!
MSam2 8 months ago
Frances Ruffelle is the original Eponine... I look up to this woman. She will always be my favorite Eponine, then Samantha Barks.
xaddictedx2xmusicx 8 months ago
I think she is really good.. you are all just haters, I mean you are all turning to mainstream voices, this girl is extraordinarily talented. She is obviously an amazing actor and kicks all of the former eponines ass on that, and as for her "whiny voice" you guys must be use to voices that lack character, so all in all I think this could be the best Eponine that has ever been.
jac8296cychosz 8 months ago
She can sing, obviously. It's just that her voice is so whiny I can't stand it.
lisambofoh 9 months ago
I fucking love this song
DDGirAssn 9 months ago
I love Lea Salonga as Fantine and Eponine, however I have enormous respect for Ruffelle and I think she's just as good.
JCS20000 9 months ago 2
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Lea Salonga fans are insufferable.
Nate1771 9 months ago
KBD?
WateverWatever04 9 months ago
I don't think anyone has doubts about her acting skills. It's very obvious she can't sing though, no matter what or how many awards she's received (she'll never be a complete musical theater actor until she leans how to sing). By the way, she didn't win the Olivier Award for Les Miz; Patti LuPone did.
aaprato 10 months ago 14
This comment has received too many negative votes show
@aaprato 99% of your credibility just flew out the window with the ludicrous statement that she "can't sing" and that "she needs to learn how to sing." Are you deaf, stupid, or just suffer from selective hearing? Or maybe this one performance is your only exposure. Even then, your statement is still a bunch of hogwash. Of course she can sing. There's no question she can. You personally finding it to your liking or not doesn't determine whether or not she can sing. You're not THAT important.
LaMisereHQ 10 months ago
@aaprato
It makes me laugh to read some people's comments saying Frances can't sing. Boublil and Schönberg used her vocals in the demo recordings of Miss Saigon, and she also sang in the Sydmonton Festival presentation of Lloyd Webber's partially completed Sunset Boulevard. Ironically people who knew so little are the ones who are very critical.
KateBushDepot 9 months ago 11
This comment has received too many negative votes show
@aaprato just because you are tone-deaf doesn't mean you can say who can 'obviously' sing or not. I have been taking music and singing in competative choirs for years and trust me, she can absolutely sing. This recording is bad though. Not her in it, the microphone that did the recording.
emmavink 8 months ago
@aaprato You're right, she didn't win the Olivier Award. Frances just won a Tony Award instead.
thegreengirl1 7 months ago
@aaprato , Go listen to her sing live on Johnny Carson. She is fantastic. This recording does not do her justice.
rmtmiller 7 months ago
ARE YOU PEOPLE RETARDED!? "missed the character"!? SHE ORIGINATED THE ROLE. SHE'S PLAYING THE CHARACTER THE WAY IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE BECAUSE SHE WAS DIRECTED. SHE WON A TONY FOR IT. AN OLIVIER AWARD. A THEATRE WORLD AWARD. It's Okay not to LIKE a performer, but don't write as if you know what you're talking about because you people OBVIOUSLY don't. It doens't take watching videos on youtube to KNOW about musical theatre and it's performers. It takes years and years of studies. GO STUDY!
pabspale 10 months ago
Alright..the creators of this wonderful musical went through the same painful process of picking the best Eponine the same way they found the "perfect" KIm for Ms. Saigon. Kim was a great replacement for Frances because they trusted her ability not because they thought she was better. Lea is their Kim and Frances is their Eponine. Point, Blank, and Period.
watersmichaeld 10 months ago
HORRIBLE.
negrotybash 10 months ago 9
@broadwaydream14
Maybe Lea is better now but Frances is Eponine. She created the character, without her doing what she did with the character Lea would not be able to be what she is. Everyeone always compares one to the other but the original set the bar. If she was as horrible as you believe then why was she the part? Maybe Lea sings the part better but the original well always be the best. Every Eponine after Frances will try to be like what she did. Its comparing apples to oranges
magruder801 10 months ago
@magruder801 No. I don't even like Lea Salonga (I don't like those pathetic Philiphinos!), but from what I gather, Salonga READ the book, so she would have known how to attack the role even without FR originating it. In fact, it's precisely because Salonga did NOT follow FR's lead that her ugly legions of fans like her interpretation.
negrotybash 10 months ago
@negrotybash
It's 'Filipinos', at least try to spell it the right way. Your racist comment is so uncalled for. Don't be such an ignorant twat.
KateBushDepot 10 months ago 2
@negrotybash ouch.
malignantquiapo 4 months ago
Frances totally missed the character. Worse, she can't sing. Whiny, nasal, inability to sustain notes, inarticulate. Have you heard her in the 25th anniversary finale? 25 years after the opening and she STILL can't perform! It's not like voice and acting lessons haven't been around in the last century!
annief31 10 months ago
@annief31 Francis totally missed the character? Who are you, the ghost of Victor Hugo? Better yet, don't you have something better to do than spread such hate? If you didn't like it, all you needed to do was hit the stop button and go away. There was utterly no reason to leave such a mean-spirited comment. Frances was a wonderful Eponine. I did listen to the 25th Anniversary Concert and I thought Patti, Rebecca, Colm, Michael, Frances, etc. all sounded wonderful.
dinitramide 10 months ago
@dinitramide I never saw Frances on stage but I've loved what I've seen and heard of her performance in the original Broadway production. Unfortunately, she sells herself rather short in this concert performance. I'm disappointed by her choice of trying to come off girlish and/or sultry. Don't know what she was going for but she should have given a level of performance as heard on the original Broadway cast recording, which is electric and passionate. I love Frances but this isn't her best.
LaMisereHQ 10 months ago
I like the sensitivity that Frances brings. Lea doesn't show the sadness that Eponine feels.
microjedi 10 months ago
o my gosh this is sooooo good!!!!! she is like seriously the best eponine!!!!!
copielover 10 months ago
I love Frances' voice. I don't hear her as weak or whiny. I think they intended her to sound less educated than the prim and proper Cosette. To me she sounds like a strong willed "white trash" girl who is trying to cope with the cards she is dealt. Amazing.
MrCuidado123 10 months ago 4
One word: Cheekbones <3
That is all
JacobInvading 10 months ago
The only whining I hear going on here is all of you people who think you know who should and should not sing the part of Eponine. Let it go people. each and every one of the girls who has played this role has brought something different, yet the same to the role. Frances was the first, and won a Tony Award , and many other awards for it. Everyone has their opinion, and it's so WRONG to come here and talk about someone's singing.
smjonesy33 11 months ago 5
@smjonesy33 If this were Facebook, I would like this comment about a hundred times if I could. I don't understand why people who don't like it feel that they need to comment. Or about other people who have played Éponine, etc. Really, the only person who has ever emotionally moved me in this role has been Frances, followed only by Celia Keenan-Bolger. This is one of my favourite performances ever.
collectingbees 10 months ago
The last note sounds and looks like a dog howling!
Rachaelchomermusical 11 months ago 5
I don't think the creator of Eponine meant for her to speak in a neigh tone.It's true that physically she was puny, a bit emaciated with mangled hair and really a description of a street person and boyish yet,i'm sure she was fragile inside.At this scene,she showed anger and despair for a love that will never be returned.would you not ?but still her love for him never fades.
1419sunnyside 11 months ago
frankly, i think the whine in her voice is perfect for the role. no doubt that lea salonga is absolutely amazing. frances could put in some power into it but the whine is her personal interpretation of the character and i think it works. i kind of like rosalind james the best though. (the british touring cast for the 25th anniv) she's just amazing
ezekielg444 11 months ago
Every time I hear this song, I feel so hopeful that THIS time Marius will notice Eponine... Then she dies, and I bawl like the hopeless romantic I am...
lesmeslover95 11 months ago
Frances is goregous!
kfag101 11 months ago
I actually really enjoy this.
candycaneify 11 months ago
Frances Ruffelle and Samantha Barks are both amazing Eponines
Blueshirts07 11 months ago
I actually really enjoy this
candycaneify 11 months ago
the vcr couldn't handle the intensity of that note.
lolita24601 11 months ago
Although her interpretation is far from the character in the book and her voice & singing are an acquired taste, I really like her. It's great to see unique and different versions!
lyk2sing2 11 months ago
Both are good but Frances i first heard way back in '88 and the feeling and emotion grabbed me. It's interpretation that everyone's missing. This particular performance is sounds phones in, but the Original Broadway Cast; Incomparable.
setbro 11 months ago
I love both versions, and Lea's voice is amazing, but to me this version is Eponine as I always imagined her. Frances style is so unique and haunting, that it is forever etched in my memory form the first time I heard the CD of the original 1985 cast. I love Lea's interpretation of the part, and very much enjoy listening to her and it moves me in a powerful way, but nothing like this version does.
irishsean4u 11 months ago
I like this version and the original french one the best.
ChristineScholz 11 months ago
Goodness. They sound nothing alike. While I can understand comparing Michele to Lea Salonga, which pauses and emphasis sound very similar, Frances sounds very different. Have respect, if not for her singing, then for her being the original Eponine.
Infantcide 11 months ago 3
For what it's worth, I love both performances. Salonga's voice is the strongest, but there's a unique quality to Rufelle's version that for me brings a greater connection to the character. Salonga's is a stage performance, Rufelle's brings a greater intimacy.
As for those who compare Eponine in the musical to the book, I think you need a reality check. This is an interpretation of the book, not a translation.
It is of course subjective anyway, and I'm happy to enjoy and admire both.
rikofold 1 year ago
i came here to compare salonga and rufelle and in my opinion there is absolutely no comparison what so ever, rufelle is a terrible eponine imo, salonga on the other hand conveys the character of eponine,she is strong but is suffering from terrible unrequited love for marius, and has amazing vocals and acting to back it up, rufelle is weak,whiny and to me she cant sing or act ! i adore les mis and eponine is my dream role and salonga is the eponine i idolise!!
broadwaydream14 1 year ago 10
@broadwaydream14
Fair enough, I uploaded this video for people who prefer Frances. But you know, it's not always a question of who is the better singer. Eponine's part is meant to be sung this way. As for her acting, no one can portray Eponine's vulnerability & sadness the way Frances does imho. It takes more than just amazing pipes and flawless technique to take a role and make it your own. If you still don't get it, listen to 'Send in the Clowns' by either Glynnis Johns or Judi Dench.
KateBushDepot 1 year ago 35
@KateBushDepot could not have said that better myself!!
kfag101 11 months ago
@KateBushDepot glynis johns is a perfect example of your point. another is daphne rubin vega as mimi in rent. frances rufelle is amazing!
lesmizfanatic90 10 months ago
@KateBushDepot Nah. I still prefer Judy Collins or Barbra Streisand sing SITC than either Glynnis Or Dench. I can only assume most people agree with me since more of them bought the two former singers' records than the latters. I could be wrong.
H1delta 7 months ago
@H1delta
Well if the highly overrated cast of the even more atrociously overrated show GLEE recorded an album of LesMis covers, it wouldn't surprise me in the least if it ends up outselling all LesMis recordings released since the 80s onwards. There is something called commercial appeal and preference, but let's not forget artistic merit/integrity.
Having said that, I'd like to add that I have nothing against Barbra and Judy Collin's covers. They're both good singers in their own right.
KateBushDepot 7 months ago
@KateBushDepot I disagree with you here as well. While a lot of people watch Glee (and I'm not one of them), not many will spend money to buy their CDs or download their mediocre product. It's a show about amateurs trying to be professionals and failing miserably.
H1delta 7 months ago
This is not Eponine in the book. Frances Rufelle ,though good, sounded weak and howling here. Lea Salonga's performance on the other hand, justified the role of Eponine!
Sibzist 1 year ago 8
she is so beautiful here
TheHeretor 1 year ago
Although I think both renditions of the song (Salonga and Ruffelle) are great in their own rights, I preffer Frances Ruffelles better. For me she really captures the emotions of Eponine and that is what I really admire. When I see and hear Salonga's rendition I feel like her singing leads me away of how she actually feels because her voice is so powerful and it is like that even when she should sound hopeful or happy. It is one constant powerful tone and I do not think it was intended for that.
roberto18giron 1 year ago
I come back to this video to say that this performances moves me so deeply. I LOVE her voice. Has anyone else heard her version of "Smile?" She is an amazing singer. Her voice is unique, with imperfections that WORK. She how I thought Éponine should sound: emotive, haunted and rough around the edges but still beautiful. This performance makes me tear up. She is an incredible actress and my only Éponine.
collectingbees 1 year ago