Stage Door News
Stage Door News
David Mirvish on the life and legacy of the great Canadian musical theatre star Michael Burgess
"Michael created the role of Jean Valjean in Les Miserables, which was one of the first international blockbusters to have its own production in Canada with a local cast, instead of a touring version. He was magnificent in the role and led the all-Canadian cast to great heights. He went on to play the role across the country to great acclaim becoming a bonafide star. But Michael's talent was multi-faceted. A few years later he played the title role in Man of La Mancha for us and excelled in that too. He was a very talented performer with a spellbinding voice and a truly arresting stage presence. In addition to his professional life, there was a great humanity to Michael. He cared about other people. He gave to charity and supported many causes through his talent. He was very kind to my parents in their time of illness and other elderly people we both new. He truly embodied the qualities of Jean Valjean in his daily life. His passing is a very sad occasion. Canada has lost one of its major artists. He will be sorely missed."- David Mirvish.
Toronto's Princess of Wales Theatre and Royal Alexandra Theatre will dim their marquee lights on Tuesday September 29 at 8pm for two minutes in the memory of Michael Burgess.
Photo: Michael Burgess as Jean Valjean. ©1989.
2015-09-28
Toronto: David Mirvish on the life and legacy of Michael Burgess