The Vest. The Xylophone. Possibly the most iconic costume Andreane Neofitou has ever designed. Replicated in countless other Les Mis productions, because no matter how different the rest of the costumes were, no one could imagine Enjolras wearing anything else on the barricade. Aaron Tveit has even talked about it when interviewed, despite the fact that he never wore it in the movie.

Yes, the complaints are valid: it’s “gaudy,” it’s “impractical,” and in a real battle it would be an instant bullet target. But with a little suspension of disbelief (a mainstay of all theatre), it’s perfect for the character. It’s elegant, fiery, gives commanding presence to any actor who wears it, and instantly stands out as one of the production’s few strategic uses of bright color. The red matches the flag of revolution and conveys both anger and rebellion, yet the military-style gold lapels show us that Enjolras isn’t just a rabble-rouser, but a self-appointed soldier fighting for justice. Together with the white poet shirt, black pants and cravat, and tricolor sash, it creates a beautiful, sexy, Romantic and inspiring effect that’s impossible to forget.

LES MIS LETTERS IN ADAPTATION - New Troubles, LM 1.2.9 (Les Miserables 1952)

Jean Valjean had been dazzled by the idea of liberty. He had believed in a new life. He very speedily perceived what sort of liberty it is to which a yellow passport is provided.