Still Dreaming the Dream: Rachelle Ann Go on LES MISERABLES: THE ARENA SPECTACULAR

With a career spanning theatre stages across the world, Rachelle Ann Go is no stranger to the iconic role of Fantine in Les Misérables. Having played the tragic heroine in both the West End and on Broadway, she is now preparing to bring the character to an entirely new scale with the upcoming Les Misérables Arena Spectacular tour — a production set to retell Victor Hugo’s beloved story with even greater grandeur.

For Rachelle, Les Misérables isn’t just a show — it’s a dream that’s defined a decade of her life. As she prepares to step back into the role of Fantine for this thrilling new venture, she reflects on her personal journey with a character that has evolved alongside her.

As Les Misérables celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2025, the World Arena Tour marks a monumental milestone for the iconic musical. This sweeping production features an international alumni cast, with every performer having previously graced the stage in Les Mis, bringing a wealth of experience and passion to the show. Set in vast arenas, the tour boasts a full cast and orchestra of 65 people, delivering a grand spectacle that amplifies the emotional power of the legendary story. This arena spectacular promises to honor the past while propelling the timeless tale into an exciting new era for audiences worldwide.

“It’s one of the dream shows for me,” she says. “I think I saw the show back in 2012 when I was [in London] for my Miss Saigon final audition. I saw Les Mis and I was like, oh my gosh, I’m going to be part of that show. I already claimed it. That’s the role I’m going to do. And here I am, still doing it for the past ten years. I’m really, really grateful that I can still do it.”

Rachelle’s portrayal of Fantine has deepened over the years, shaped by her own experiences and milestones. “I think the first time I saw it, I could relate to the heartbreaks that she went through, the pain as a woman. And the strength. I really love that. And then when I became a mum, now I can relate even more. I felt like I’m emotionally connected to the character and I don’t need to internalise. I just love the character and I feel like I’m still learning and getting to know her even more.”

Fantine’s role — often affectionately called a “princess track” among performers — comes with its own unique rhythm and rewards. “I think that’s why that’s what attracted me to the role,” she laughs. “She has that long break, which, honestly? It’s the best. I have my dinner break backstage.” Despite Fantine’s relatively brief stage time, she affirms the emotional demands of the role remain significant. “It’s tough emotionally but rewarding. Very rewarding for me.”

While Rachelle has consistently gravitated toward characters of great emotional depth — from Gigi in Miss Saigon to Eliza in Hamilton — it wasn’t something she had initially imagined for herself. “Well, the first job I got was Miss Saigon back in 2014. Coming from the Philippines, not knowing much about theatre because in the Philippines, theatre wasn’t my thing, I grew up listening to pop music. It’s just recently that Filipino audiences embraced theatre — it’s expensive in the Philippines. So, we didn’t have money to watch shows. But I’m just so grateful and blessed that I was given the opportunity, entrusted to do these heavy roles — I hope I did them justice.”

Stepping into iconic characters, she sees her career as a steady progression of challenges: “When I did Saigon, Gigi had her one big song, one big moment — this is the first level. And then the second level, Fantine. And then Eliza was bigger. It’s like I’m carrying like, heavier weights every show.”

Representation has also become a significant part of Rachelle’s journey — something she’s deeply proud of. “I never dreamt of doing big theatre shows,” she admits. “I just wanted to sing. I just wanted to share my gift at home. To share it with my family members. You know, I wasn’t expecting that it’s going to be [shared to] people all over the world and basically representing the Asian community. I think that’s part of like my biggest dream, knowing that that’s your purpose. To be able to represent your country.”

If she could send a message to her younger self? Rachelle says gently, “You’re going to be fine. All the fears she felt were valid. Whatever she went through, all the pain is worth it.”

Now, the Arena Spectacular marks a new chapter — a thrilling merge of her pop roots and theatre experience. “Back in the Philippines, I used to do concerts in big arenas, and now going to the theatre scene, it’s more intimate in the West End or on Broadway. Now doing it together [on the Arena tour]… this is such a dream come true. I’ve never done this. So this is going to be the first time!”

Sharing the stage with a global ensemble of seasoned Les Mis alumni only heightens her excitement. “I mean, what an honour. Thank you guys for choosing me to be part of this! When I saw the cast, I’m like, are you kidding me?” she gushes. “I’ve worked with Bradley Jaden back in 2015 when I did it here in the West End. And then the ensemble people, I worked with them during the UK tour of Les Mis, I love them so much. But the rest of the cast, I haven’t met them at all! I’ve seen them in videos on YouTube, social media and stuff, [and thought] they’re amazing, I hope I can sing with them one day. And here we are!”

There’s a special connection between Rachelle and her new castmates too — a shared history and love for the world of Les Misérables. “That’s why I’m still here,” she laughs. “I remember telling my husband like two years ago. I said, this is probably my last show. That’s why I’m always emotional. This is my last. And like, there’s always next time, you know?”

As Rachelle Ann Go steps once more into Fantine’s world — this time under the soaring ceilings of arenas around the world — it’s clear her story with Les Misérables is still being written, with even greater stages yet to come.

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LES MISERABLES: THE ARENA SPECTACULAR plays from April 30th in Sydney, May 14th in Melbourne, and May 28th in Brisbane.

For tickets and more information, visit lesmisarenatour.com.au