It was the perfect way to turn down the temperature in Niagara. To soften the disrespect, and sometimes lack of civility, which seem to be present in our self centred and amalgamated Niagara-on-the-Lake. Don’t forget, we used to be several smaller towns. So was St. Catharines. And not that long ago.

Let’s all take a deep breath.

I read and I eavesdrop, but I don’t participate in social media. So, my worldview is somewhat narrow. By choice, and by default.

A group of friends drove 20 minutes to Laura Secord Secondary School in St. Catharines to enjoy “Les Miserables” last Saturday evening. For a total change of pace.

As a parent of two former Secord students, who between them performed in four great Secord musicals, last Saturday evening was certainly a trip down memory lane. The sometimes misunderstood high school students were waiting for us, after many months of rehearsing and working with director and drama teacher Chris Baker.

As well as the principal performers, actors and ensemble, so many other students and staff members are part of these musical triumphs every second year. It would be unfair to name any of them, but let me take a brief stab:

The creative team, the student crews for costumes, hair, makeup, backstage, sound and spotlights, front of house, videography. the set, including stage design and props, and the set construction crew.

This is the 60th year of Secord musicals, so about 30 different shows have been staged. Chapeaux, hats off, and the biggest of big bravos to everyone who has been involved over the years.

Thousands of people, and even more thousands of parents and siblings, are proud members of “the Secord musical family.”

Big bucks had been spent this year for the rights to present the “school edition” of “Les Miserables.” Just imagine the complex legalities and hoops.

On the cover of the impressive playbill, it was noted that the school edition was specially adapted and licensed by Music Theatre International and Cameron Mackintosh (Overseas) Limited. Had a dreaded tariff been paid?

But I digress. Let me get back to rambling about “Les Miserables” last weekend at Secord. Sharp and eclectic, if that’s the right word, students were on the job, welcoming us and getting everyone to their seats for a sold out show. Professional pictures of the cast by Secord alum Robert Nowell in the lobby. Exciting.

An amazing number of Secord staff members were helping out. Enthusiastically, and proud to be a part of the Secord musical again this year. May I ask, how does a relatively small high school, in a relatively small city, do it every second year? The talent, all the other components. This is a major league triumph.

The musical version of “Les Miserables,” based on the novel by Victor Hugo, has been around a long time. Since 1985. Many of us have seen it. Often numerous times.

How would Secord do with the school edition? In a word, they did great.

Jean Valjean, Inspector Javert, Fantine, Eponine, Cosette and the other principals. The ensemble. Everyone involved with this year’s Secord musical. The acting, the voices, the choreography, the technical aspects.

And a special shout out for the costumes! Over thirty actors, many with multiple costumes.

I am in no way qualified to comment on anything theatrical. At the same time, I have some background in show business, so let me summarize. Secord musicals are always great. And the tradition continues.

“Les Miserables,” school edition, will thrill and inspire you. We can all benefit from an evening like this.

Thank you, Ms. K. Sacco, Principal at Laura Secord Secondary School. And yes, Mr. Baker, we hear the people sing.

The show runs until Sunday, March 8, closing with a 2 p.m. matinee. Do yourselves a favour and check it out.